Mohini Ekadashi is a significant day in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In 2026, this auspicious Ekadashi will be observed on Sunday, April 26. Devotees observe a fast and perform special rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for prosperity, happiness, and salvation.
Date and Time of Mohini Ekadashi 2026
According to the Hindu calendar, Mohini Ekadashi falls during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Vaishakha. In 2026, the Ekadashi tithi begins on April 25 at 8:30 PM and ends on April 26 at 6:10 PM. Therefore, the fast will be observed on April 26. The Parana (breaking the fast) should be done on April 27 during the appropriate time.
Puja Vidhi for Mohini Ekadashi
Devotees wake up early in the morning and take a holy bath. They clean the puja room and install an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu. The puja involves offering flowers, fruits, incense, and a lamp. Devotees chant Vishnu mantras and read the Mohini Ekadashi vrat katha. The fast is observed without consuming grains, and some devotees opt for a waterless fast. The puja concludes with an aarti and distribution of prasad.
Significance of Mohini Ekadashi
It is believed that observing Mohini Ekadashi with sincerity washes away all sins and grants moksha (liberation). The vrat is said to be as meritorious as performing a thousand Ashwamedha yagnas. Devotees who observe this fast are blessed with happiness, peace, and prosperity. The story associated with this Ekadashi highlights the importance of devotion and the power of Lord Vishnu's grace.
Vrat Katha (Story)
According to Hindu scriptures, King Yudhishthira asked Lord Krishna about the significance of Mohini Ekadashi. Lord Krishna narrated the story of a wealthy merchant named Dhanapal who lived in the city of Champavati. He was a devotee of Lord Vishnu but his son was sinful. After the merchant's death, his son led a life of sin and eventually died. Due to his sins, he was taken to the abode of Yama, the god of death. Meanwhile, the merchant's wife observed Mohini Ekadashi and donated to Brahmins. Her devotion pleased Lord Vishnu, who rescued the son from Yama's abode and granted him salvation. This story illustrates the power of Mohini Ekadashi to redeem even the most sinful souls.
In conclusion, Mohini Ekadashi 2026 is a spiritually enriching day for Hindus. By observing the fast and performing the puja with devotion, one can attain divine blessings and cleanse their soul.
