Apara Ekadashi 2026 in India: Vrat Date, Muhurat & Katha
Vrat Date (Ekadashi)
13-05-2026
Parana (Fast Break)
14-05-2026
In 2026, the auspicious Apara Ekadashi will be observed on 13-05-2026. According to Vedic Panchang, the Ekadashi Tithi begins at 2026-05-13 13:30 and ends at 2026-05-14 11:21. Devotees should break their fast during the Parana window of 16:38 - 08:31 on 14-05-2026 for successful completion of the Vrat.
📅 Detailed Muhurat for 2026
Tithi Starts
13-05-2026 | 13:30
Tithi Ends
14-05-2026 | 11:21
Hari Vasara End
14-05-2026 | 16:38
About Apara Ekadashi
Apara Ekadashi is observed during the Krishna Paksha of the Jyeshtha month. The word 'Apara' signifies 'limitless' or 'immense,' implying that the spiritual merit gained from this vrat is boundless. In the Brahmanda Purana, Lord Krishna explains to King Yudhishthira that this Ekadashi has the power to dissolve even the most deep-seated karmic burdens, including those arising from unjust actions or neglected duties. The significance of Apara Ekadashi is compared to taking a dip in the holy Ganges or performing rituals at sacred sites like Kashi or Pushkar. It is a day of profound redemption, where the devotee seeks to reset their spiritual journey by acknowledging past errors and committing to a path of righteousness (Dharma). The worship is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in His Trivikrama form, symbolizing His power to reclaim and restore the three worlds.
Pooja Vidhi (Rituals)
Wake up before sunrise and meditate on Lord Trivikrama.
Take a ceremonial bath and wear clean, preferably yellow, attire.
Offer yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, and seasonal fruits to Lord Vishnu.
Light a Ghee lamp and recite the Apara Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
Avoid grains, beans, and heavy spices; maintain a fruit-based or water-based fast.
Practice 'Mauna' (silence) for some time to conserve spiritual energy.
Stay awake or perform 'Bhajan-Kirtan' during the night (Jagran) if possible.
Benefits of this Fast
- ✓ Dissolves deep karmic debts and past sins.
- ✓ Brings fame, prosperity, and success in ventures.
- ✓ Removes obstacles caused by negative planetary influences.
- ✓ Provides mental peace and emotional stability.
- ✓ Grants immense spiritual merit equivalent to holy pilgrimages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Apara and Achala Ekadashi?
They are the same. 'Apara' refers to the limitless merit, while 'Achala' refers to the steadiness and stability the fast brings.
Q: Can pregnant women or the elderly observe this fast?
Scriptures allow flexibility for health reasons. They can observe 'Sajala' (with water/fruits) or perform simple worship without a strict fast.
Q: Why is Lord Trivikrama worshipped on Apara Ekadashi?
Trivikrama is the expansive form of Vishnu who measured the universe in three steps, signifying His ability to help devotees overcome any worldly or spiritual obstacle.