Mohini Ekadashi 2026 – Date, Rituals, Significance & Observances

Date & Tithi

Mohini Ekadashi will be observed on Monday, April 27, 2026.
It falls on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi (11th day of the waxing moon) in the month of Vaishaka.

• Tamil Calendar: Chithirai
• Bengali Calendar: Jyestho
• Malayalam Calendar: Edava

Significance

• Mohini Ekadashi commemorates Lord Vishnu’s divine form as Mohini, which appeared on this sacred tithi.
• Observing this vrat is believed to wash away sins of past and present births.
• Devotees gain blessings for prosperity, happiness, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
• Scriptures narrate its greatness: Saint Vasistha explained it to Lord Rama, and Lord Krishna narrated it to Yudhishthira.

Rituals & Vrat Vidhi

• Dashami Preparations (Day before Ekadashi):
• Eat saatvik food once before sunset.
• Sleep on the floor as a mark of austerity.
• Ekadashi Observance:
• Strict fasting without grains; many observe complete fast until Dwadashi sunrise.
• Devotees wake before sunrise, bathe with Til and Kush, and worship Lord Vishnu.
• Offerings include sandalwood, sesame seeds, flowers, fruits, and sacred Tulsi leaves.
• Bhajans, Ramayana recitals, and all‑night vigil in praise of Lord Krishna are common.
• Breaking the Fast (Parana):
• On Dwadashi, the fast is broken traditionally with milk or light falahar.
• Partial Fast Option:
• For those with health constraints, fruits, vegetables, and milk products are permitted.
• Rice and grains are strictly avoided by all.

Spiritual Benefits

• Greater merit than pilgrimages, charity, or yagnas.
• Equivalent to donating a thousand cows in charity.
• Grants virtues of purity, devotion, and detachment.
• Leads to moksha (salvation) and freedom from rebirth.

Reading Surya Purana on this day is considered highly auspicious, as it further elaborates on the divine significance of Mohini Ekadashi.