Ekadashi is considered one of the most significant fasting days in Sanatan Dharma, with the day dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe a vrat, offer prayers and perform various spiritual activities during Ekadashi tithi and break the fast on Dwadashi during the prescribed parana period. In August 2026, devotees will observe Kamika Ekadashi and Shravana Putrada Ekadashi.
When Is Kamika Ekadashi In August 2026?
Kamika Ekadashi will be observed in August 2026. According to the given tithi timings, the Ekadashi tithi begins on August 8 at 1:59 PM and ends on August 9 at 11:04 AM. The parana, or the time for breaking the fast, will be observed on August 10 between 5:47 AM and 8:00 AM. The Dwadashi tithi ends at 8:00 AM on August 10.
Kamika Ekadashi 2026 timings:
• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: August 8, 1:59 PM
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: August 9, 11:04 AM
• Parana Time: August 10, 5:47 AM to 8:00 AM
• Dwadashi End: August 10, 8:00 AM
When Is Shravana Putrada Ekadashi In August 2026?
Shravana Putrada Ekadashi will fall in August 2026, with the Ekadashi tithi beginning on August 23 at 2:00 AM and ending on August 24 at 4:18 AM. For devotees observing the regular Shravana Putrada Ekadashi vrat, the parana period is scheduled for August 24 from 1:41 PM to 4:16 PM. The Hari Vasara period ends at 10:49 AM on August 24.
Shravana Putrada Ekadashi 2026 timings:
• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: August 23, 2:00 AM
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: August 24, 4:18 AM
• Parana Time: August 24, 1:41 PM to 4:16 PM
• Hari Vasara End: August 24, 10:49 AM
When Is Vaishnava Shravana Putrada Ekadashi 2026?
Vaishnava devotees following the Vaishnava Ekadashi calendar will observe Shravana Putrada Ekadashi with the same Ekadashi tithi, beginning on August 23 and ending on August 24. However, the Vaishnava Ekadashi parana will take place on August 25 from 5:55 AM to 6:20 AM.
• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: August 23, 2:00 AM
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: August 24, 4:18 AM
• Vaishnava Parana: August 25, 5:55 AM to 6:20 AM
• Dwadashi End: August 25, 6:20 AM
What Is The Significance Of Ekadashi?
Ekadashi is traditionally dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed by devotees through fasting, prayers, meditation and other spiritual practices. According to Hindu religious beliefs, observing an Ekadashi vrat with devotion is associated with spiritual purification and seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that sincere observance of the fast helps them overcome negative influences and past karmic burdens.
The day is also considered an opportunity for devotees to deepen their spiritual practices and devotion through prayers, Vishnu mantras and visits to temples.
What Are The Ekadashi Puja Rituals?
Devotees generally begin the day by waking up early and taking a sacred bath. The house and puja area are cleaned before the worship begins.
A typical Ekadashi puja may include:
1. Offering Arghya to Lord Surya after the morning bath.
2. Placing idols or images of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi in the puja area.
3. Chanting Lord Vishnu’s mantras.
4. Reciting the relevant Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
5. Offering fruits, sweets, bhog, Panchamrit and Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu.
6. Spending time in prayer and chanting, including the Shri Krishna Maha Mantra.
7. Visiting a Vishnu temple and seeking blessings.
8. Breaking the fast during the prescribed Dwadashi parana period.
Devotees following a strict fast may abstain from regular food and consume only permitted vrat foods, depending on their tradition and personal practice.
Why Is Parana Important After An Ekadashi Fast?
Parana refers to breaking the Ekadashi fast during the prescribed period on Dwadashi. Devotees who observe the vrat traditionally break their fast only during the designated parana window. Since Ekadashi and Dwadashi timings can vary based on location and the applicable Hindu calendar, devotees should follow the timings prescribed for their location and tradition.
