Kamika Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha & Benefits

Kamika Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha in the holy month of Shravana. Since it falls during Chaturmas (when Lord Vishnu is in Yoga Nidra), this Ekadashi holds immense significance for seeking forgiveness and spiritual purification.

In 2026, Kamika Ekadashi falls on a Saturday. It is said that merely hearing the glory of this Ekadashi grants the merit of a Vajapeya Yajna.

Significance of Kamika Ekadashi

Lord Brahma told Sage Narada that observing Kamika Ekadashi is superior to bathing in the sacred waters of Ganga, Kashi, Naimisharanya, or Pushkar.
The most unique aspect of this day is Tulsi Worship. It is believed that:

• One who offers a fresh Tulsi leaf (Manjari) to Lord Vishnu on this day is untouched by sin, just as a lotus leaf is untouched by water.
• Lighting a Ghee lamp on this day pleases Chitragupta (the keeper of deeds) and erases past bad karma.

Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The legend tells of a wealthy landlord (Kshetriya) who lived in a village. He was kind but had a short temper. One day, he got into a heated argument with a Brahmin regarding land. In a fit of rage, the landlord accidentally struck and killed the Brahmin.

Filled with guilt and remorse for committing Brahma Hatya (killing of a Brahmin), he approached a saint to seek atonement. The saint advised him that no ordinary penance could wash away this sin. He was told to observe the Kamika Ekadashi Vrat in the month of Shravana with strict devotion and offer Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu.

The landlord fasted sincerely and stayed awake all night praying before the idol of Lord Shridhar (Vishnu). Pleased by his repentance, Lord Vishnu appeared in his dream and absolved him of the terrible sin. This story highlights the power of this fast to grant forgiveness.

Puja Vidhi for Kamika Ekadashi

1. Panchamrit Snan: Since it is Shravana month, offer milk or Panchamrit to Lord Vishnu (or Shaligram).
2. Tulsi Offering: This is mandatory. Offer fresh Tulsi leaves while chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
3. Deep Daan: Lighting a lamp filled with Ghee or Sesame oil in a Vishnu temple is highly auspicious.
4. Peepal Worship: Watering the Peepal tree on this day is also considered beneficial for removing Pitra Dosh.
5. Parana: Break the fast the next morning (Dwadashi) after feeding a Brahmin.

Frequently Asked Questions