Overview
- Ekadashi tithi begins at 12:12 PM on July 20 and ends at 9:38 AM on July 21 according to Drik Pachang, with Parana observed after sunrise on July 22.
- This year’s observance coincides with Sawan Second Somwar, offering devotees a rare chance to honor both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
- Fasting options include Nirjala (complete abstention from food and water) or Phalahar (fruits, milk and water) vows chosen according to devotees’ personal observances.
- Ritual practices call for pre-dawn baths, cleaning homes with Gangajal, and temple or home worship featuring flowers, panchamrit offerings and recitations of Vishnu Sahasranama and Shiv Chalisa.
- Devotees seek forgiveness of sins and a path to moksha by observing this fast, which Hindu scriptures equate with the spiritual merit of 1,000 yajnas or donating a thousand cows.