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

Jaya Ekadashi (also known as Bhisma Ekadashi in some regions) falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Magha. This powerful fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is mentioned in the Padma Purana. It is believed that observing this Vrat liberates the soul from the cycle of birth and death, and specifically grants freedom from “Pishach Yoni” (ghostly or spirit existence) due to past sins.

In 2026, Jaya Ekadashi falls on a Thursday, which is already a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Brihaspati, making it doubly auspicious.

Significance of Jaya Ekadashi

The name “Jaya” implies victory. Lord Krishna explained to Yudhisthira that this Ekadashi has the power to destroy even the most heinous sins, including Brahma Hatya.

It acts as a spiritual cleanser for ancestors who may be suffering in lower realms (Preta Yoni). By fasting on this day and donating the merit (Punya) to ancestors, one can help them attain salvation (Moksha).

Jaya Ekadashi Vrat Katha (The Story)

The legend revolves around the court of Lord Indra in Nandan Van. A Gandharva named Malyavan and an Apsara named Pushpavati fell in love. One day, during a musical performance for Indra, they became so distracted by their lust for each other that they lost the rhythm and sang incorrectly.

Enraged by this disrespect, Lord Indra cursed them: “You have insulted the assembly. Go to the mortal world and live as Pishachas (ghosts/vampires) and suffer!”

They fell to the Himalayas and lived a miserable life as spirits, suffering from extreme cold and hunger. Fortunately, the day happened to be Magha Shukla Ekadashi (Jaya Ekadashi). In their misery, they inadvertently fasted the entire day, ate only fruits, and stayed awake all night shivering in the cold, unknowingly performing a Jagran.

Impressed by their unintentional austerity, Lord Vishnu accepted their penance. The next morning, their curse was lifted. They regained their divine forms, were liberated from the ghostly existence, and returned to heaven. This story highlights that Jaya Ekadashi can liberate souls from the deepest suffering.

Puja Vidhi for Jaya Ekadashi

• Sankalp: Take a bath early in the morning and vow to observe the fast with purity.
• Worship: Offer yellow flowers, sandalwood paste, Tulsi leaves, and fruits to Lord Vishnu or Lord Krishna.
• Mantra: Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama or simply “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
• Offerings: Since this is Magha month, offering Sesame (Til) and flowers is considered auspicious.
• Parana: The next morning (Dwadashi), feed a Brahmin or donate food before breaking your fast.

Frequently Asked Questions