Papamochani Ekadashi 2026 Date, Rituals, Significance & Fasting Rules

 

Date

• Papamochani Ekadashi 2026: March 15, Sunday
• Observed on the 11th day of Krishna Paksha in Chaitra (North India) and Phalgun (South India).
• Falls between Holika Dahan and Chaitra Navratri.
• Special significance when it falls on a Thursday (Guruvar Ekadashi).

Rituals

• Morning Bath:
• Devotees bathe at sunrise using Kush grass and sesame seeds for purification.
• Fasting:
• Strict fast without food or only water is considered most auspicious.
• Alternatively, devotees consume non-grain foods, milk, nuts, and fruits.
• Fast is broken the next day after prayers to Lord Vishnu.
• Food Restrictions:
• Pulses, rice, and non-vegetarian food are strictly forbidden.
• Worship of Lord Vishnu:
• Offerings include Tulsi leaves (plucked a day before), flowers, fruits, lamps, and incense.
• Mogra/jasmine flowers are considered highly meritorious.
• Devotees recite Sri Vishnu Sahasranama and chapters of the Bhagavad Gita.
• Evening temple visits and special programs are common.

Significance

• Scriptural References:
• Mentioned in Bhavishyottara Purana and Harivasara.
• Narrated by Sage Lomasa to King Mandhata, and later by Lord Krishna to Yudhisthira.
• Spiritual Benefits:
• Destroys sins and frees devotees from guilt.
• Protects from influence of demons or ghosts.
• Considered more meritorious than visiting pilgrimage sites or donating 1,000 cows.
• Ultimate Reward:
• Observers attain worldly pleasures and ultimately reach Vaikunth (Lord Vishnu’s abode).

Purpose of the vrat is to control bodily desires and dedicate time to chanting and listening to Vedic mantras.