Indira Ekadashi – Tithi, Observance, Significance & Legends

2025 Date: Wednesday, September 17
Tithi: Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha
Associated Period: Pitru Paksha

Spiritual Significance

Observed during Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month, coinciding with Pitru Paksha, a time dedicated to ancestral remembrance.
Known as Ekadashi Shradh, it’s believed to liberate ancestors from sins and help them attain Moksha.
Devotees worship Lord Vishnu, especially in his Padmanabha form, and perform Shraddh rituals for departed souls.
The vrat is said to grant the merit of Ashwamedha Yagna, symbolizing immense spiritual benefit.

Legend of King Indrasena

King Indrasena of Mahishmatipura, a devout Vishnu bhakta, was visited by Sage Narada.
Narada revealed that the king’s father was trapped in Yamaloka, unable to attain Moksha.
On his father’s request, Indrasena observed Indira Ekadashi Vrat with full devotion.
As a result, his father was liberated and reached Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu.

Rules & Rituals

Dashami (Day Before):

Ekadashi Day:

Complete fast (Nirjala or Phalahar) is observed.
Wake early, bathe, and worship Lord Vishnu with Gangajal, Panchamrit, Tulsi, and incense.
Chant: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Recite Vishnu Sahasranama, perform aarti, and keep a night vigil with bhajans.
Avoid grains, onion, garlic, and tamasic foods.

Dwadashi (Next Day):

Scriptural Reference

The legend of Indira Ekadashi is narrated by Lord Krishna to Yudhishthira in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana.
It recounts the story of King Indrasena, whose father was trapped in Yamaloka due to past sins.
Sage Narada advised the king to observe Indira Ekadashi to liberate his father's soul.
The vrat is said to grant Moksha to ancestors and remove Pitra Dosh.

Temple Visits & Observance

Vishnu temples across India hold special Ekadashi pujas, especially in Tirupati, Srirangam, and Udupi.
Devotees offer Tulsi garlands, light ghee lamps, and participate in bhajans and discourses.
In North India, temples like Vrindavan’s Banke Bihari and Haridwar’s Vishnu Ghat see heightened activity during Pitru Paksha.
Shraddh ceremonies are often held in Gaya, Varanasi, and Trimbakeshwar, where ancestral rites are deeply rooted.

Regional Observance

Region	Observance Highlights
North India	Known as Ekadashi Shradh; linked with Pitru Paksha; Shraddh rituals emphasized.
South India	Focus on Vishnu worship; fasting and bhajans; less emphasis on Shraddh.
Western India	Devotees perform both Shraddh and Vishnu puja; temples host special Ekadashi events.
Eastern India	Observed with ancestral offerings; Vishnu puja is central; fasting is strict.