Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu religion. There are 24 Ekadashi observances in a year, occurring twice each month during Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) and Krishna Paksha (the waning phase). On this sacred day, devotees honor Lord Vishnu by observing a strict fast and offering prayers to obtain His blessings.
Apara Ekadashi 2026: Date and Time
Apara Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Jyeshtha. In 2026, the Apara Ekadashi fast will be observed on May 13, 2026. Below are the key timings:
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: May 12, 2026 – 02:52 PM
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: May 13, 2026 – 01:29 PM
- Parana Time (fast-breaking): May 14, 2026 – 05:31 AM to 08:14 AM
- Dwadashi End Moment: May 14, 2026 – 11:20 AM
Spiritual Significance of Apara Ekadashi
Ekadashi holds immense religious and spiritual importance in Hinduism. Each Ekadashi has its unique significance, story, and beliefs. Devotees observe a rigorous fast on this day and worship Lord Vishnu with pure devotion. The fast is broken on the next day (Dwadashi tithi) during the Parana time, which typically occurs in the morning.
In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna explains the significance of Apara Ekadashi to Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas. The word Apara means infinite, and Lord Krishna counseled Yudhishthira to observe this fast to win the Mahabharata war. It is believed that devotees who observe this fast with purity and seek Lord Vishnu's blessings will have all their wishes fulfilled. This fast is particularly powerful for those wishing to be free from past transgressions.
This fast is regarded as one of the most effective ways to purify the body, mind, and spirit. Devotees who observe it are always protected by Lord Vishnu. Engaging in religious activities on this day brings positive changes in lifestyle. Happiness, health, prosperity, and all earthly pleasures are bestowed upon them by Lord Vishnu. It is believed that devotees attain a sacred place in Vaikuntha Dham, the abode of Lord Vishnu.
How to Worship on Apara Ekadashi
- Take a holy bath as soon as you wake up, preferably during Brahma Muhurta (the auspicious period before sunrise).
- Give a sacred bath to the idols of Laddoo Gopal Ji, Lord Krishna, and Lord Vishnu.
- Light a diya (lamp) with desi ghee and place an idol of Lord Vishnu on a wooden plank.
- Apply yellow sandalwood paste (chandan) as tilak, adorn the idol with a yellow garland, and offer panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee).
- Chant "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" 108 times while offering tulsi leaves, seasonal fruits, and dry fruits.
- Recite the Lord Vishnu Aarti.
- Visit a temple of Lord Vishnu and seek His blessings.
- The fast is broken on the next day (Dwadashi tithi). Those unable to bear hunger may eat sattvic food in the evening.
Mantras to Chant
Devotees can chant the following mantras during the worship:
- Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
- Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari, Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva
- Achyutam Keshavam Krishna Damodaram, Ram Narayanam Janki Vallabham
- Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
