Indira Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha & Ancestral Benefits

Indira Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin. This Ekadashi is unique because it falls within the Pitru Paksha (Shraddh), the fortnight dedicated to ancestors. Unlike other Ekadashis where devotees fast for their own salvation, this Vrat is primarily observed to grant Moksha (Salvation) to one’s forefathers.

In 2026, Indira Ekadashi falls on a Wednesday. It is believed that the merit (Punya) earned from this fast acts as a direct ticket to Vaikuntha for ancestors who may be suffering in lower realms (Yama Loka) due to past sins.

Significance of Indira Ekadashi

Lord Krishna explains in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana that this Vrat is the most powerful remedy for Pitru Dosh. If a person’s ancestors are stuck in hell or wandering as spirits due to sudden death or bad karma, the merit of Indira Ekadashi fast observed by their son or grandson can instantly liberate them. It brings peace, prosperity, and lineage growth to the observer.

Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story of King Indrasena)

The legend dates back to the Satya Yuga. A powerful king named Indrasena ruled the city of Mahishmati. He was a devotee of Lord Vishnu. One day, the celestial sage Narada Muni visited his court.

Narada revealed that he had recently visited Yamaloka (the abode of the God of Death), where he saw King Indrasena’s father suffering. The father sent a message through Narada: “Tell my son Indrasena to observe the Indira Ekadashi fast and transfer the merit to me so that I may be liberated from this suffering and attain heaven.”

Hearing this, King Indrasena was filled with grief. Following Narada’s instructions, the King observed the fast on the Ekadashi of the dark fortnight of Ashwin. He spent the day in prayer and offered Pind Daan (food balls) to his ancestors.

The moment the King transferred the merit of the fast to his father, flowers showered from the sky. His father was instantly released from Yamaloka and ascended to Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s abode) in a divine chariot. Since then, this fast has been the ultimate way to serve one’s ancestors.

Puja Vidhi for Indira Ekadashi

1. Afternoon Ritual (Dashami): The day before (Dashami), perform the Shraddh ceremony for ancestors and eat only once.
2. Morning Sankalp: On Ekadashi, take a bath and vow to fast for the liberation of your ancestors.
3. Shaligram Puja: Worship the Shaligram stone or Lord Vishnu idol with Tulsi, incense, and flowers.
4. Tarpan: Offer water mixed with black sesame seeds (Til) to the ancestors.
5. Jagran: Stay awake at night chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
6. Parana: Break the fast on Dwadashi after feeding a Brahmin and donating food in the name of your ancestors.

Frequently Asked Questions