Aja Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha & Significance

Aja Ekadashi (also known as Ananda Ekadashi) falls on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. The word “Aja” means “The Unborn,” referring to Lord Vishnu (or Krishna) who has no beginning or end. Observing this fast is believed to destroy sins from previous births and restore lost prosperity.

In 2026, Aja Ekadashi falls on a Monday. Since Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Ekadashi to Lord Vishnu, this coincidence makes the day highly auspicious for worship.

Significance of Aja Ekadashi

Lord Krishna told King Yudhishthira that this Vrat is so powerful that it grants the merit of performing an Ashwamedha Yajna. It is specifically beneficial for:

• Those who have lost their wealth or social status.
• Those separated from their family members.
• Removing mental agony and past bad karma.

Aja Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story of King Harishchandra)

The legend tells of the truthful Emperor Harishchandra. To uphold his promise (Vachan) given to Sage Vishwamitra, he donated his entire kingdom. He was left destitute and forced to sell his wife, Taramati, and son, Rohitashwa, into servitude. He himself sold himself to a Chandala (crematorium keeper) and worked guarding a cremation ground.

Despite these hardships, he never abandoned the path of Truth. One day, while he was drowning in sorrow over his separation from his family, Sage Gautama passed by. Seeing the King’s plight, the Sage advised him to observe the Aja Ekadashi Vrat in the month of Bhadrapada.

Harishchandra observed the fast with intense devotion, staying awake all night. By the merit of this Vrat, his past sins were washed away. Miraculously, his dead son came back to life, he was reunited with his wife, and the Gods returned his kingdom to him. Since then, this Ekadashi is observed to overcome the hardest struggles in life.

Puja Vidhi for Aja Ekadashi

1. Sankalp: Wake up before sunrise, take a bath, and vow to fast with truthfulness (Satya), just like King Harishchandra.
2. Worship: Place a Kalash (pot) decorated with mango leaves. Worship Lord Vishnu or Lord Krishna with grains of rice and Tulsi.
3. Reading: It is essential to read or listen to the story of King Harishchandra on this day.
4. Behavior: Maintain silence or speak only the truth throughout the day. Avoid anger and criticism.
5. Parana: Break the fast the next morning (Dwadashi) during the auspicious window.

Frequently Asked Questions