Utpanna Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha & Origin

Utpanna Ekadashi (also known as Utpatti Ekadashi) falls on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Margashirsha. This day holds immense historical significance because it marks the birth of Ekadashi Mata, a divine power that emerged from Lord Vishnu. According to scriptures, devotees who wish to start the yearly Ekadashi fasting routine should begin on this specific day.

In 2026, Utpanna Ekadashi falls on a Saturday. It is believed that observing this fast gives the merit of performing charity at all pilgrimage sites (Teerthas).

Significance: The Birth of Ekadashi

Unlike other Ekadashis which are celebrated for specific boons, Utpanna Ekadashi celebrates the **origin of the fast itself**. It is said that Ekadashi Devi is one of the *Shaktis* of Lord Vishnu.

• Beginner’s Day: If you have never fasted before, this is the scripturally recommended day to begin the tradition.
• Sin Destruction: The Goddess was born specifically to destroy sinful demons; similarly, the fast destroys sins.
• Ashwamedha Merit: It grants the merit of 100 Ashwamedha Yajnas.

Utpanna Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Murasura Vadh)

In the Satya Yuga, a terrifying demon named Mura (Murasura) defeated Indra and conquered Swarga Loka. The helpless Devas approached Lord Vishnu for protection.

Lord Vishnu fought Mura for 1,000 years, but the demon was invincible. Eventually, Lord Vishnu decided to rest and entered a deep cave named Simhavati in Badrikashram to sleep (Yoga Nidra). Seeing Vishnu asleep, Mura entered the cave to kill him.

Just as Mura raised his weapon, a radiant goddess armed with divine weapons emerged from Lord Vishnu’s body. She roared like thunder and fought Mura, eventually beheading him and destroying his army.

When Lord Vishnu woke up, he was amazed to see the demon dead. The Goddess bowed to him. Pleased, Vishnu named her “Ekadashi” because she appeared on the 11th day (Ekadashi Tithi). He granted her a boon: “Anyone who observes a fast on your day will be freed from all sins and will attain Vaikuntha.”

Puja Vidhi for Utpanna Ekadashi

1. Sankalp: Wake up before sunrise (Brahma Muhurat) and take a vow to fast.
2. Worship: Worship Lord Vishnu and *Ekadashi Mata*. Offer yellow flowers, sandalwood paste, and Tulsi leaves.
3. Naivedya: Offer fruits and sweets. Do not consume grains or rice.
4. Night Vigil: Staying awake at night (Jagran) listening to the stories of Vishnu is considered highly meritorious.
5. Parana: Break the fast the next morning (Dwadashi) within the auspicious time after feeding the needy.

Frequently Asked Questions