Ekadashi is a highly sacred observance in Hindu tradition, dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Observed on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of both Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha, Ekadashi is considered an ideal day for fasting, prayer, and spiritual discipline.
In 2026, there are 24 Ekadashi observances, including two special Ekadashis during Adhik Maas (extra lunar month) — Padmini Ekadashi and Parama Ekadashi. These are regarded as especially powerful for devotion, purification, and spiritual progress.
Purushottam Maas (Adhik Maas / Mal Maas) – 2026
Purushottam Maas Begins: May 17, 2026
Purushottam Maas Ends: June 15, 2026
Purushottam Maas, also known as Adhik Maas or Mal Maas, is an extra lunar month added to the Hindu calendar approximately once every 32 months to align the lunar and solar cycles. In 2026, the extra month is Adhika Jyeshtha, followed by Nija Jyeshtha.
This sacred month is dedicated entirely to Lord Vishnu and is considered extremely auspicious for washing away sins, reducing negative karma, and attaining peace, prosperity, devotion, and self-purification.
Spiritual Practices During Purushottam Maas
- Observing Ekadashi fasts with devotion
- Reading sacred texts like Bhagavad Gita, Purushottama Mahatyam, and Bhagavata Puranam
- Chanting Vishnu Sahasranama and mantras of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna
- Performing puja with Tulsi leaves, flowers, fruits, and special sweets like Anarsa (Ariselu)
- Engaging in seva (service) and charitable acts
- Donating 33 items or 33 rupees/coins to seek divine blessings
Important Ekadashi in 2026
- Shattila Ekadashi: January 14, 2026 – Krishna Paksha, Magha
- Jaya Ekadashi: January 29, 2026 – Shukla Paksha, Magha
- Padmini Ekadashi: May 26, 2026 – Shukla Paksha, Adhik Jyeshtha
- Parama Ekadashi: June 11, 2026 – Krishna Paksha, Adhik Jyeshtha
- Devshayani Ekadashi: July 25, 2026 – Shukla Paksha, Ashadha
- Mokshada Ekadashi: December 20, 2026 – Shukla Paksha, Margashirsha
Complete Ekadashi List – 2026
- January 14, Wednesday
Pushya Krishna Paksha – Shattila Ekadashi - January 29, Thursday
Magha Shukla Paksha – Jaya Ekadashi - February 13, Friday
Magha Krishna Paksha – Vijaya Ekadashi - February 27, Friday
Phalguna Shukla Paksha – Amalaki Ekadashi - March 14, Saturday (8:10 AM)
Phalguna Krishna Paksha – Papmochani Ekadashi - March 29, Sunday
Chaitra Shukla Paksha – Kamada Ekadashi - April 13, Monday
Chaitra Krishna Paksha – Varuthini Ekadashi - April 27, Monday
Vaishaka Shukla Paksha – Mohini Ekadashi - May 13, Wednesday
Vaishaka Krishna Paksha – Apara Ekadashi - May 26, Tuesday
Adhik Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha – Padmini Ekadashi - June 11, Thursday
Adhik Jyeshtha Krishna Paksha – Parama Ekadashi - June 25, Thursday
Nija Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha – Nirjala Ekadashi - July 10, Friday
Nija Jyeshtha Krishna Paksha – Yogini Ekadashi - July 25, Saturday
Ashadha Shukla Paksha – Devshayani Ekadashi - August 9, Sunday
Ashadha Krishna Paksha – Kamika Ekadashi - August 23, Sunday
Shravana Shukla Paksha – Shravana Putrudu Ekadashi - September 7, Monday
Shravana Krishna Paksha – Aja Ekadashi - September 22, Tuesday
Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha – Parivartani Ekadashi - October 6, Tuesday
Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha – Indira Ekadashi - October 22, Thursday
Ashwin Shukla Paksha – Papankusha Ekadashi - November 5, Thursday
Ashwin Krishna Paksha – Rama Ekadashi - November 20, Friday
Kartika Shukla Paksha – Devutthana Ekadashi - December 4, Friday
Kartika Krishna Paksha – Utpanna Ekadashi - December 20, Sunday
Margashirsha Shukla Paksha – Mokshada Ekadashi
Spiritual Importance of Ekadashi
Observing Ekadashi is believed to:
- Purify the mind, body, and soul
- Remove past sins and negative karma
- Strengthen devotion to Lord Vishnu
- Promote discipline, self-control, and spiritual growth
Devotees observe fasting, chant Vishnu mantras, engage in prayer, meditation, and charity to receive divine blessings.
