April Ekadashi 2026: Dates and Rituals for the Sacred Fasts
In the Hindu tradition, the eleventh day of both the Krishna (waning) and Shukla (waxing) lunar phases each month is observed as Ekadashi. This day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, and observing a fast with sincere devotion is believed to bring immense spiritual and material benefits. According to sacred texts, Ekadashi is not merely a day of fasting but also a symbol of self-purification. Keeping a fast on this day is said to foster happiness, prosperity, mental peace, and financial stability in one’s life. As April approaches, many devotees are eager to know the exact dates for the Ekadashi fasts falling within this month. Let us explore the schedule and the proper method of worship.
When is the First Ekadashi in April 2026?
According to the Hindu calendar, the first Ekadashi of April 2026 is Varuthini Ekadashi, which occurs during the Krishna Paksha of the Vaishakha month. The auspicious timing for this Ekadashi begins on the night of April 13, 2026, at 1:17 AM and concludes on April 14, 2026, at 1:08 AM. Based on these timings, the fast for Varuthini Ekadashi will be observed on April 13, 2026. This marks the first Ekadashi fast of the month. Devotees will break their fast (Parana) on April 14, 2026, during the Dwadashi tithi, which is the twelfth lunar day.
When is the Second Ekadashi in April 2026?
The second Ekadashi of April is Mohini Ekadashi, which falls during the Shukla Paksha of the Vaishakha month. This year, the Mohini Ekadashi tithi begins on April 26, 2026, at 6:07 PM and ends on April 27, 2026, at 6:15 PM. Consequently, the fast for Mohini Ekadashi will be kept on April 27, 2026. This will be the second and final Ekadashi fast for the month of April.
Step-by-Step Puja Rituals for Ekadashi
Observing the Ekadashi fast with the correct rituals enhances its spiritual significance. Here is a simple guide to performing the puja:
- Morning Preparation: Wake up early, complete your bathing and other cleansing routines, and wear clean, fresh clothes. Clean the home temple area thoroughly.
- Lighting the Lamp: Light a lamp (preferably a ghee or oil lamp) in front of an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu to begin the worship.
- Offering Yellow Clothes: First, offer yellow-colored garments or a simple yellow cloth to Lord Vishnu, as yellow is considered an auspicious color for this deity.
- Applying Tilak: Apply a tilak of sandalwood paste or turmeric paste on the forehead of the idol. Then, offer incense (dhup) and the lit lamp (deep) while chanting prayers.
- Offering Flowers: Present yellow flowers and a garland of fresh flowers to the Lord.
- Food Offering (Naivedya): Prepare and offer a simple meal that includes bananas, chana dal (split chickpeas), jaggery (gur), and panjiri (a traditional sweet mix). It is essential to include fresh Tulsi (holy basil) leaves in the offering, as Vishnu puja is considered incomplete without them.
- Concluding the Puja: Recite the Vishnu Chalisa or any preferred Vishnu hymns. Finally, perform the aarti (ritual of waving a lamp) to conclude the ceremony.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on general beliefs, astrological principles, and traditional almanacs. The accuracy and completeness of these details are not guaranteed, and they should be considered as general guidance.
