Kamada Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha & Significance
Kamada Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha & Significance
Kamada Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. It holds a special place in the Vedic calendar as it is the first Ekadashi of the Hindu New Year (which begins with Chaitra Navratri). The word “Kamada” means “one that grants wishes.”
In 2026, this auspicious day falls on a Monday, a day already dedicated to Lord Shiva, creating a beautiful confluence of Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva) worship.
📅 Kamada Ekadashi 2026 Muhurat
- Vrat Date: Monday, March 30, 2026
- Parana Time (Break Fast): Mar 31, 06:15 AM to 08:40 AM
- Hari Vasara End Time: Mar 31, 09:15 AM
⚠️ Note: Tithi timings and Parana windows may vary slightly based on your location (sunrise time). Please check your local Panchang for precise timings.
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Significance of Kamada Ekadashi
According to the Varaha Purana, Kamada Ekadashi is so powerful that it can liberate a person from the most terrible curses, including the curse of becoming a demon (Rakshasa). It cleanses the sins of the entire family line and grants the devotee their heart’s desire.
Kamada Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story of Lalit & Lalita)
The legend dates back to the glorious city of Ratnapura, ruled by King Pundarika. In his court, there was a talented Gandharva couple—Lalit (the singer) and Lalita (the dancer). They loved each other deeply.
One day, while singing in the court, Lalit’s mind wandered to his wife, causing him to miss a beat and sing incorrectly. The serpent king, Karkotaka, noticed this error and the reason behind it. Enraged by the disrespect to the art, he cursed Lalit to become a monstrous, flesh-eating demon (Rakshasa).
Lalita was heartbroken seeing her husband’s suffering. She wandered into the Vindhyachal mountains and met the great Sage Shringi. The sage advised her to observe the Kamada Ekadashi Vrat and donate the merit (Punya) of the fast to her husband.
Lalita observed the fast with utmost devotion on Chaitra Shukla Ekadashi. The moment she transferred the merit to Lalit, his demonic form vanished, and he regained his celestial Gandharva form. They were happily reunited and eventually ascended to heaven.
Puja Vidhi for Kamada Ekadashi
- Morning Rituals: Wake up before sunrise and bathe using soil (Mitti) from a sacred place if possible, or simple clean water.
- Altar Setup: Place an idol of Lord Vishnu (or Krishna/Rama). Offer Tulsi, flowers, and fruits.
- Sankalp: Hold water in your palm and vow to fast for the fulfillment of a specific wish or general well-being.
- Recitation: Reading the story of Lalit and Lalita is mandatory on this day.
- Parana: Break the fast the next morning (Dwadashi) after feeding a Brahmin.
Check the complete list of 26 Ekadashis this year in our master guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kamada Ekadashi falls on Monday, March 30, 2026.
It signifies the fulfillment of desires (“Kamada”) and the removal of sins or curses that may be causing suffering in one’s life.
While Ekadashis are auspicious for spiritual activities, marriage dates should be selected based on the specific Lagna and Nakshatra of the couple. Consult a Vedic astrologer.
