Ekadashi April 2026: Varuthini and Mohini dates, tithi timings, parana rules & spiritual importance

Ekadashi is one of the most sacred fasting days in Hinduism, observed twice a month in honour of Lord Vishnu. In April 2026, devotees will observe two important vrat days, Varuthini Ekadashi and Mohini Ekadashi. These fasts are believed to cleanse the mind, remove past sins and bring spiritual growth.

Varuthini Ekadashi 2026: Date, Tithi and Timings

As per Drik Panchang, Varuthini Ekadashi will be observed on Monday, 13 April 2026. It falls during the Krishna Paksha of the Vaishakha month.

Ekadashi Tithi:

• Begins: 01:16 AM, 13 April 2026
• Ends: 01:08 AM, 14 April 2026

According to Hindu calendars, Varuthini Ekadashi falls in the Vaishakha month as per the North Indian Purnimanta calendar and in the Chaitra month as per the South Indian Amanta calendar. Despite this variation, devotees across India observe it on the same day.

Significance of Varuthini Ekadashi

Varuthini Ekadashi is considered highly auspicious for protection, prosperity and spiritual purification. Observing this fast is believed to remove sins and safeguard devotees from negative influences.

Devotees worship Lord Vishnu, practise self-discipline and often engage in charity. It is also regarded as a day to seek forgiveness and improve one’s karmic path.

Mohini Ekadashi 2026: Date, Tithi and Timings

Mohini Ekadashi will be observed on Monday, 27 April 2026, during the Shukla Paksha of Vaishakha month.

Ekadashi Tithi:

• Begins: 06:06 PM, 26 April 2026
• Ends: 06:15 PM, 27 April 2026

This Ekadashi is associated with the Mohini avatar of Lord Vishnu, symbolising the removal of illusion and negativity from life.

Importance of Mohini Ekadashi

Mohini Ekadashi holds great significance for those seeking peace, clarity and spiritual upliftment. Observing this vrat is believed to free devotees from past karmic burdens and guide them towards a righteous path.

It is also considered beneficial for mental clarity, emotional balance and overall well-being.

Ekadashi Parana Rules: When and How to Break the Fast

Parana, or breaking the fast, is a crucial part of Ekadashi observance. It must be done correctly to complete the vrat.

• Parana is performed after sunrise on the next day (Dwadashi)
• It must be completed within the Dwadashi Tithi
• Failing to do so is considered inauspicious

Important guidelines:

• Avoid breaking the fast during Hari Vasara, the first quarter of Dwadashi
• The best time for Parana is Pratahkal (morning)
• Avoid Madhyahna (midday) for breaking the fast
• If morning is not possible, Parana can be done after midday

Who Should Observe Ekadashi Fasting?

In some cases, Ekadashi fasting is recommended on two consecutive days:

• Smartha (householders) should observe fasting on the first day
• Sanyasis, widows, and those seeking Moksha may observe the second day
• Devotees seeking deeper devotion to Lord Vishnu may fast on both days

This distinction ensures that different spiritual goals and lifestyles are accommodated.

Why Ekadashi April 2026 is Spiritually Important

Both Varuthini and Mohini Ekadashi offer an opportunity for spiritual discipline, reflection and devotion. These sacred days encourage devotees to practise restraint, prayer and charity while strengthening their connection with Lord Vishnu.

Key Highlights

• Varuthini Ekadashi: 13 April 2026
• Mohini Ekadashi: 27 April 2026
• Both observed with fasting and prayers
• Parana must be done on Dwadashi after sunrise
• Avoid breaking fast during Hari Vasara

Observing Ekadashi April 2026 with sincerity is believed to bring peace, prosperity and spiritual fulfilment into one’s life.