Devotees of Lord Vishnu across India will observe Yogini Ekadashi on Friday, July 10, 2026. Falling during the Krishna Paksha of the Ashadha month, the sacred Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The day holds special significance for devotees seeking good health, spiritual purification and freedom from past sins.

According to the Hindu Panchang, Yogini Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious Ekadashi observances of the year. Scriptures state that observing the fast with devotion is believed to bring prosperity, remove obstacles and bestow divine blessings.

Yogini Ekadashi 2026: Date and Timings

For Ujjain (IST), the important timings are:

• Yogini Ekadashi: Friday, July 10, 2026

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 8:16 AM on July 10

• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 5:23 AM on July 11

• Sunrise: 5:52 AM

• Sunset: 7:12 PM

• Hari Vasara Ends: 10:33 AM on July 11

• Parana (Fast Breaking) Time: 1:52 PM to 4:32 PM on July 11

• Dwadashi Ends: 2:04 AM on July 12

Significance of Yogini Ekadashi

Yogini Ekadashi is regarded as a powerful vrat dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Religious texts mention that observing this fast with sincerity is believed to cleanse accumulated sins, promote physical well-being and lead devotees toward spiritual upliftment.

The observance is especially associated with prayers for relief from illnesses and a healthy life. Hindu scriptures compare the spiritual merit earned through this vrat with the merit of performing numerous charitable acts.

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha is narrated in the Padma Purana. According to the legend, Hemmali, a servant of Kubera, neglected his duty of bringing flowers for Lord Shiva's worship because he remained with his wife. Angered by the negligence, Kubera cursed him with leprosy and separation from his family.

After years of suffering, Hemmali met Markandeya Rishi, who advised him to observe the Yogini Ekadashi fast. By faithfully performing the vrat, Hemmali was relieved of the curse, regained his health and reunited with his wife. The story highlights the importance of devotion, discipline and sincere repentance.

Rituals to Observe

Devotees generally begin preparations from Dashami by following a satvik diet and avoiding tamasic food.

On Ekadashi, devotees:

• Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath.

• Worship Lord Vishnu with flowers, incense, lamp and Tulsi leaves.

• Chant Vishnu mantras and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama or Bhagavad Gita.

• Observe a fast, either complete or by consuming fruits and vrat-approved foods.

• Spend the day in prayer, bhajans and spiritual activities.

• Break the fast during the prescribed Parana Muhurat on Dwadashi.

Many devotees also worship the Peepal tree and donate food, clothes or other essentials to the needy.

Foods Allowed During the Fast

Those unable to observe a complete fast may consume vrat-approved foods such as fruits, milk, dry fruits, water, makhana, sabudana and vrat flour preparations. Grains, rice, wheat, pulses and regular salt are generally avoided.

Importance for Devotees

Yogini Ekadashi is believed to remove negative karma, promote good health and bring peace and prosperity. Devotees consider the observance particularly beneficial for attaining spiritual progress while seeking Lord Vishnu's blessings for themselves and their families.

The fast concludes on July 11 during the prescribed Parana time between 1:52 PM and 4:32 PM, after offering prayers and prasad to Lord Vishnu.