Aja Ekadashi 2026 Date

Aja Ekadashi will be observed on September 7, 2026, Monday. It falls on the 11th lunar day, or Ekadashi, during the waning phase of the Moon in the Bhadrapada month.The festival is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed with fasting and devotional worship. In North India, where the Purnimanta calendar is followed, the observance falls in Bhadrapada, while calendar traditions in other regions can place it in a different lunar month.

Ekadashi Tithi Timings

The important Aja Ekadashi timings for Ujjain are:

•              Ekadashi Tithi begins: September 6, 2026, at 7:29 pm

•              Ekadashi Tithi ends: September 7, 2026, at 5:04 pm

•              Hari Vasara ends: September 7, 2026, at 10:29 pm

•              Dwadashi ends: September 8, 2026, at 2:43 pm

•              Parana time: September 8, 2026, from 6:15 am to 8:42 am

•              Sunrise on September 7: 6:14 am

•              Sunset on September 7: 6:35 pm

The above timings are based on the Ujjain Panchang and may differ for other locations.

Aja Ekadashi Vrat

Devotees observing Aja Ekadashi traditionally follow a fast and dedicate the day to Lord Vishnu. Preparations may begin on Dashami, the day before Ekadashi, when devotees follow a simple and sattvic diet.On Ekadashi, devotees take a bath, clean the place of worship and perform prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Offerings may include flowers, fruits and other traditional puja items, while a lamp is also lit before the deity.Fasting practices vary among devotees. Some observe a strict fast without food or water, while others follow a lighter form of fasting according to their health and religious practice. Grains and rice are traditionally avoided during the Ekadashi fast.

Aja Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The traditional story associated with Aja Ekadashi centres on King Harishchandra, who was known for his commitment to truth. According to the religious account, the king faced severe hardships after giving away his kingdom and eventually working at a cremation ground.During this difficult period, Sage Gautama is said to have advised Harishchandra to observe Aja Ekadashi and remain devoted to the fast. The king followed the guidance and continued his religious observance despite his circumstances.The story further describes a series of trials involving Harishchandra's family before divine intervention ultimately restored his fortunes. The account is traditionally cited to highlight the spiritual significance attributed to Aja Ekadashi.

Significance of Aja Ekadashi

Aja Ekadashi holds an important place among the Ekadashi observances dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Religious traditions associate the fast with spiritual purification, devotion and liberation from worldly suffering.Devotees may spend the day reciting Vishnu-related prayers and religious texts, including the VishnuSahasranama and Bhagavad Gita. Some also maintain an overnight vigil and devote the period to prayer and meditation.The fast is traditionally concluded on Dwadashi, the day after Ekadashi, during the prescribed Parana period. Devotees should follow the Parana timing applicable to their location when breaking the fast.