Ekadashi is a festival of great spiritual importance. In 2026, 26 Ekadashis will be observed. The Ekadashi that falls on the Shukla Paksha of the Vaishakh month is observed as Mohini Ekadashi.

Mohini Ekadashi ka Mahatva

Significance of Mohini Ekadashi

Old texts say that at the time of the Samudra Manthan, when the nectar showed up, Vishnu became Mohini to hand it over safely to the gods while keeping it away from demons.This is not just a story, it reflects how good prevailed at a time when darkness had the power to dominate.. Because of this avatar he took, the eleventh day of the month known as Mohini Ekadashi honors that very form of Vishnu.

Exact Date and Tithi of Mohini Ekadashi

In 2026, the exact date of Mohini Ekadashi is the topic of confusion about the correct fasting date. According to Hindu panchang rules, Mohini Ekadashi will be observed on 27th April 2026.

- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: April 26, 2026, at 6:06 PM

- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: April 27, 2026, at 6:15 PM

- Fasting Date: April 27, 2026

- Parana (Breaking Fast): April 28, 2026, from 5:43 AM to 8:21 AM

Spiritual Importance of Observing Ekadashi Vrat

Devotees observe fasts and seek blessings for their growth and spiritual enhancement.

Mohini Ekadashi Puja Muhurat:

Mohini Ekadashi Morning Puja: 4:39 AM – 5:44 AM

Mohini Ekadashi Evening Puja: 6:53 PM – 7:59 PM

Rahu Kaal: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM (avoid auspicious activities during this time).

Important instructions

Mohini Ekadashi, 2026, will fall on Sunday, Tulsi leaves should not be plucked on Sunday, so collect Tulsi leaves earlier and store them for Ekadashi.
Start the procedures of Ekadashi from the day before (Dashami).
This fast is going to be 34 hrs long. Follow the rules as described by our ancestors for the best results.
Follow Dashami rules one day before fasting for better spiritual benefits.

Ekadashi Vrat Rules & Rituals (Step-by-Step Guide in English)

Devotees who observe Ekadashi should begin following the rules from Dashami Tithi (one day before Ekadashi). On Dashami, it is advised to eat only satvik food and avoid consuming grains after sunset.
On the day of Ekadashi, take a sankalp (vow) in the morning and begin the fast with full devotion.
Worship Lord Vishnu using white sesame seeds, flowers, sandalwood (chandan), incense (dhoop), and lamps (deep). Offer fruits to the deity along with Tulsi leaves, which are considered pious.
After the Puja, listen to the Ekadashi katha and chant Vishnu mantras throughout the day. If possible chant this mantra: “ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय”
Chant Shodashopachara Puja of Lord Vishnu.
At last, don't forget to do kshamayaachna; chant the following mantra-
मन्त्रहीनं क्रियाहीनं भक्तिहीनं जनार्दन।
यत्पूजितं मया देव परिपूर्ण तदस्तु मे॥
ॐ श्री विष्णवे नमः। क्षमा याचनाम् समर्पयामि॥
Devotees maintain the fast with dedication and, in the evening, perform Ekadashi Puja again and offer fruits to the Lord.
Finally, on Dwadashi (the next day), parna will be done on the prescribed muhurat, which symbolizes the end of 34 hours of Ekadashi Vrat.

Observing Ekadashi with discipline and devotion is believed to purify the mind, remove past sins, and bring the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The City of Bhadravati & Dhrishtabuddhi

Long ago, there was a beautiful city named Bhadravati. It was located on the banks of the river Saraswati. The king of the city was a true follower of Dharma. In the same city lived Dhanpal, a wealthy merchant. He was a devotee of Lord Vishnu and also he was a man of high morals.

The Sinful Son

Dhanpal had five sons, but his youngest son, Dhrishtabuddhi, was extremely sinful and immoral. He wasted his wealth on gambling, drinking, and bad company, indulging in wrongful deeds.

Wandering in the Forest

Annoyed by his behavior, Dhanpal expelled his son from his house. Dhrishtabuddhi wandered here and there; lastly, he took refuge in the forest, surviving by hunting animals.

Sage Kaundinya’s Guidance

One day, weak from hunger and thirst, he reached the ashram of the great sage Kaundinya Muni. The sage felt compassion for him and advised him to observe the sacred fast of Mohini Ekadashi, which falls in the Shukla Paksha of the Vaishakh month.

Liberation & Attainment of Vishnulok

Following the sage’s advice, Dhrishtabuddhi observed the fast with full devotion and proper rituals. As a result, all his past sins were destroyed, and in the end, he attained Vishnulok, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu.

Significance of the Katha

Listening to or reading this sacred story is believed to grant the merit equal to donating 1000 cows (Gau Daan). This vrat helps a person overcome illusions (moha) and leads them toward spiritual liberation.