Devotees across India can now plan their spiritual calendar for the coming year, as the complete schedule of Ekadashi fasts for 2026 has been outlined. Ekadashi, observed on the eleventh lunar day of each fortnight in the Hindu calendar, holds immense significance for millions of Hindus, particularly followers of Lord Vishnu. The year 2026 promises a series of these sacred days dedicated to fasting, prayer, and spiritual purification.
The Complete Month-by-Month Ekadashi Calendar for 2026
The ritual of observing Ekadashi involves a strict fast from grains and beans, with many devotees abstaining from food and water entirely. The practice is believed to cleanse the body and soul, bring devotees closer to the divine, and help overcome past karmic debts. The year 2026 will see a total of 24 Ekadashi observances, following the lunar cycle.
The fasting dates for 2026 are as follows:
January 2026: The year begins with the Saphala Ekadashi on January 8th, followed by the Putrada Ekadashi on January 22nd.
February 2026: Devotees will observe Shattila Ekadashi on February 7th and Jaya Ekadashi on February 21st.
March 2026: The month of March features Vijaya Ekadashi on March 8th and Amalaki Ekadashi on March 23rd.
April 2026: April brings Papamochani Ekadashi on April 7th and the highly significant Kamada Ekadashi on April 22nd.
May 2026: Observances include Varuthini Ekadashi on May 6th and Mohini Ekadashi on May 21st.
June 2026: Apar Ekadashi falls on June 5th, followed by Nirjala Ekadashi—the most austere fast—on June 20th.
July 2026: Yogini Ekadashi is on July 4th, and the sacred Devshayani Ekadashi, which marks the start of Chaturmas, is on July 19th.
August 2026: Kamika Ekadashi will be observed on August 3rd, and Shravana Putrada Ekadashi on August 18th.
September 2026: Aja Ekadashi falls on September 1st, and Parivartini Ekadashi on September 16th.
October 2026: Indira Ekadashi is scheduled for October 1st, and Papankusha Ekadashi for October 16th.
November 2026: Rama Ekadashi will be observed on October 31st, and the prominent Devutthana Ekadashi on November 14th.
December 2026: The year concludes with Utpanna Ekadashi on November 30th and Mokshada Ekadashi on December 14th.
Understanding the Two Traditions: Smarta and Vaishnava
A crucial point for devotees to note is the difference between Smarta and Vaishnava Ekadashi observances. This distinction often leads to two different dates for the same Ekadashi. The variation arises because the Smarta tradition considers Ekadashi to begin at sunrise, while the Vaishnava tradition considers it to begin at sunrise on the day when the Ekadashi tithi is prevalent during the Brahma Muhurta (the pre-dawn period).
For example, if the Ekadashi tithi begins late in the day and ends before sunrise the next morning, Smarta followers will observe the fast on the first day, while Vaishnava followers will observe it on the second day. Therefore, individuals should confirm the applicable date based on their family tradition or the guidance of their spiritual authority. The dates listed above generally follow one common system, but local panchangams (Hindu almanacs) should be consulted for precise regional timings.
The Spiritual Significance and Benefits of Observing Ekadashi
Each Ekadashi has its own unique legend, deity association, and set of benefits described in ancient Puranic texts like the Padma Purana. Fasting on these days is said to grant both material and spiritual rewards, from good health and prosperity to liberation (moksha). For instance, Nirjala Ekadashi is known for its strict waterless fast and is believed to grant the merit of observing all 24 Ekadashis of the year. Devshayani Ekadashi marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu's cosmic sleep, a period considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices.
Modern interpretations also highlight the health benefits of intermittent fasting, which aligns with the Ekadashi practice. The break for the digestive system is seen as a way to detoxify the body, improve mental clarity, and enhance self-discipline. Ultimately, beyond the physical act of fasting, Ekadashi is a day dedicated to introspection, chanting, reading scriptures, and performing acts of charity, making it a holistic spiritual exercise for the devout.
With this complete Ekadashi 2026 calendar in hand, devotees can prepare in advance to observe these holy days with full devotion and adherence to their chosen rituals, ensuring a spiritually fulfilling year ahead.
