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

Rama Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha in the holy month of Kartik. This is one of the most significant Ekadashis as it arrives just a few days before the festival of lights, Diwali. The name “Rama” refers to Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. Thus, observing this Vrat is believed to bring the dual blessings of Lord Vishnu (Moksha) and Goddess Lakshmi (Wealth).

In 2026, Rama Ekadashi falls on a Wednesday. It is traditionally believed that observing this fast wipes away even the gravest sins, including *Brahma Hatya*.

Significance of Rama Ekadashi

The greatness of Rama Ekadashi is described in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana.

• Wealth & Prosperity: Since it is named after Goddess Lakshmi, it is an excellent day to pray for financial stability before Diwali.
• Sin Removal: It is said that the merit of this fast is greater than performing 1,000 Ashwamedha Yajnas.
• Moksha: It liberates the soul from the cycle of birth and death.

Rama Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story of Shobhan & Chandrabhaga)

There was once a pious King named Muchukunda, who was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. He had a daughter named Chandrabhaga, who was married to Prince Shobhan (son of King Chandrasen).

King Muchukunda was very strict about Ekadashi fasting; in his kingdom, even animals were not fed on Ekadashi. When Shobhan visited his in-laws during Kartik month, Rama Ekadashi approached. Chandrabhaga was worried because she knew her husband was physically weak and could not bear hunger. However, to avoid the King’s displeasure, Shobhan decided to observe the fast.

Sadly, due to extreme hunger and thirst, Prince Shobhan died before sunrise the next day. The King performed his last rites, but Chandrabhaga did not commit Sati; instead, she continued to observe Ekadashi fasting strictly at her father’s house.

The Miracle:
Because Shobhan had died observing the sacred Rama Ekadashi (even unwillingly), he was granted a beautiful celestial kingdom on the Mandarachal Mountain. However, since his fast was not done with devotion, his kingdom was invisible and unstable.

Later, a Brahmin from Muchukunda’s kingdom spotted Shobhan in his celestial city. Shobhan narrated his story and asked the Brahmin to tell Chandrabhaga. When Chandrabhaga heard this, she transferred the merit of all her lifetime Ekadashi fasts to her husband. Instantly, Shobhan’s kingdom became stable and eternal, and Chandrabhaga joined him there to live happily forever.

Puja Vidhi for Rama Ekadashi

1. Morning Ritual: Wake up during Brahma Muhurta and take a holy bath.
2. Altar Setup: Place an idol of Lord Vishnu (Damodara form) and Goddess Lakshmi.
3. Offerings: Offer Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu and red flowers to Goddess Lakshmi. Offering Naivedya (sweets) is essential.
4. Lighting Lamps: Since it is close to Diwali, light ghee lamps (Deep Daan) in the evening near the Tulsi plant and the main entrance.
5. Parana: Break the fast on Dwadashi (Nov 5) after feeding a Brahmin.

Frequently Asked Questions