Ekadashi holds a significant place in Hinduism, observed twice every month—once during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) and once during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase). According to the Hindu calendar, the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi in the month of Margashirsha is known as Mokshada Ekadashi. This year, Mokshada Ekadashi falls on December 11, 2024.
It is believed that observing a fast on Ekadashi absolves devotees of sins and paves the way to attaining Vaikuntha Dham (Lord Vishnu’s abode). Mokshada Ekadashi is also celebrated as Gita Jayanti, marking the day when Lord Krishna delivered the divine Bhagavad Gita. In Hinduism, Ekadashi is considered highly auspicious.
When Should the Ekadashi Fast Begin?
The Ekadashi fast doesn’t depend on the exact start time of the Ekadashi tithi (date). It begins at sunrise on the Ekadashi day and concludes the following day after sunrise. The fast is typically observed for 24 hours, from sunrise to sunset.
However, it is customary for devotees to refrain from consuming grains the previous evening to ensure the stomach is free of undigested food by the time the fast begins at sunrise.
Timings for Mokshada Ekadashi 2024:
- Start of Ekadashi Tithi: December 11, 2024, at 03:42 AM
- End of Ekadashi Tithi: December 12, 2024, at 01:09 AM
Auspicious Timings for Worship:
- Labh (Prosperity): 7:03 AM to 8:21 AM
- Amrit (Most Auspicious): 8:21 AM to 9:38 AM
- Labh (Prosperity): 4:07 PM to 5:24 PM
Parana (Breaking the Fast):
The Parana or breaking of the fast for Mokshada Ekadashi will be done on December 12, 2024 (Thursday), during the following time:
- Parana Time: 7:04 AM to 9:08 AM
- End of Dwadashi Tithi: 10:26 PM
Observing the Mokshada Ekadashi fast with devotion and faith is said to bring spiritual upliftment, liberation from sins, and blessings from Lord Vishnu.