Perhaps the biggest Ekadashi of all in Hindu tradition, Apara Ekadashi is the fasting fast. This sacred vrat is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and falls during the Krishna Paksha of the Jyeshtha month and is said to wash away sins and bring spiritual merit, prosperity, and peace.
Devotees observe a very sincere fast each year and carry out some very rigid rites to receive blessings from Lord Vishnu. So, this year, there have been questions among worshippers that may differ from the very moment of Apara Ekadashi 2026, if at all; whether the vrat must be observed on the 12th or the 13th of May.
The Ekadashi tithi per the Hindu Panchang starts on the evening of May 12, 2026, and ends on the afternoon of May 13, 2026. Because the Ekadashi tithi is celebrated on May 13, the morning the sun rises, the Vedas consider Wednesday a special day to fast on the Apara Ekadashi.
For ritual observances, vrat-observing worshipers must begin preparing the night before by eating satvik food and avoiding tamasic items like onion, garlic, meat, and alcohol. Many adherents also refrain from rice and grains before the fast begins.
One day of Apara Ekadashi is the morning of Brahma, before which a devotee should rise early, go to bathe in water and wash themselves in clean clothing. A dedicated puja space is prepared for the deity, Lord Vishnu. The idol or image of Lord Vishnu is adorned with flowers, sandalwood paste and Tulsi leaves.
Devotees light a diya, incense sticks, and light a diya before offering fruits, sweets and Tulsi offerings to God. The chanting of Vishnu Sahasranama, reading of Ekadashi vrat katha and prayers and devotional mantras are regarded as very fortunate during the daytime.
During nirjala, many of the devotees will consume nothing except water throughout the day, whereas some eat fruits, milk and foods that satisfy their vrat. It is widely believed that truly adhering to the Apara Ekadashi helps people to be forgiven for past sins and receive divine blessings.
According to Hindu scriptures, the punya earned from this Ekadashi can be attributed to pious pilgrimage and charitable works. The fast ends on Dwadashi tithi, on May 14, 2026. Following prayers to Lord Vishnu, devotees partake in parana, or breaking the fast, in the proper morning time.
Religious scholars also advise devotees to keep positive thoughts straight, to refrain from anger and to get a good sense of charity during the month of vrat. Giving food, clothing or money to those in need is thought of as a great asset on Apara Ekadashi.
Just a day before Hindu devotees’ eyes for this holy day, different temples of Lord Vishnu around India are anticipated to host prayers, bhajans and spiritual gatherings.
