Jaya Ekadashi is the day in which we can pay homage to Lord Vishnu for sustaining the balance of this world. This sacred time period is an excellent opportunity for us to purify our hearts and achieve the divine grace of Bhagwan. Lord Vishnu’s blessings, particularly on Jaya Ekadashi, will manifest in our lives in the form of success in almost all important endeavours. Indeed, sincere devotees will also attain freedom from the negative energies or spirits in their surroundings. In this article, we have covered the important timings, spiritual significance, vrat katha, rituals and everything you need to know about this sacred festival.
Jaya Ekadashi 2026: Important Date & Timings
The date of Jaya Ekadashi is 29th January 2026 (Thursday)
Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 4:35 PM, 28th January 2026 (Wednesday)
The conclusion of Ekadashi Tithi is at 1:55 PM, 29th January 2026 (Thursday)
Fast -breaking Time or Parana is from 7:10 AM to 9:20 AM, 30th January 2026 (Friday)
Vrat Katha of Jaya Ekadashi 2026
A popular mythological story that is associated with Jaya Ekadashi is about the celestial partners Malyawan and Pushyavati. They belonged to the Gandharva clan. During a function at the court of Lord Indra, they engaged in an inappropriate dance form. This resulted from their lustful nature and Lord Indra cursed them. Suddenly, they were transformed into demons or Pishachas and were transported into the Himayalas where they had to lead a life of penance.
As months passed, the date of Jaya Ekadashi arrived. On this day both of them unknowingly observed fasts and, as a result, achieved liberation from the curse of Lord Indra. This meaningful story teaches us the powerful benefits of leading a life of devotion and also shows us what will happen when we move against godly rules due to carelessness or sensual distractions.
Spiritual Significance of Jaya Ekadashi 2026
As this sacred day falls in the the Magha month of Hindu spiritual calendar (especially in Shukla Paksha), observing fasts and prayers, can destroy our karmic weightage and sins, opening the path towards Moksha. The traditional belief is that Jaya Ekadashi is an opportunity for devotees to align themselves on the path of Dharma, thereby make significant advances spiritually. In fact, the religious observances on Jaya Ekadashi is believed to be as spiritually significant as Agnishtom Yagya. The Gadadhari form of of Bhagwan Vishnu, who carries mace and conch, is particularly worshipped on this day.
Rituals for Jaya Ekadashi 2026
Religious leaders say that we should wake up during the Brahma Muhurta on Jaya Ekadashi. If possible, it is highly recommended to take a holy bath in rivers such as Ganges, Yamuna or Saraswati. It is advised that, we should follow fasts based on our capacity. Even though Nirjala fast that avoids both water and food is the most powerful, we can decide to follow a fruit-based or milk-dependent fast as well.
Then, we can engage in Vishnu Puja by chanting sacred mantras or reading religious texts. “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” mantra is particularly powerful on this day. After that, we can listen to Jaya Ekadashi Vrat Katha which will purify our inner selves. We can also visit temples honouring Bhagwan Vishnu where important aartis and gathering of devotees will take place.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What foods are prohibited on Jaya Ekadashi?
On Jaya Ekadashi, devotees avoid consuming all grains like rice, wheat or barley, pulses and legumes. Non vegetarian foods, alcohol, onion and garlic are also avoided.
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Which color to wear on Ekadashi?
On Ekadashi, the most auspicious colour to wear is yellow which represents Lord Vishnu. White can also be worn as it represents purity.
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What is the other name of Jaya Ekadashi?
The other name of Jaya Ekadashi is Bhaimi Ekadashi.
