Ekadashi in October 2026: Check Indira Ekadashi and Papankusha Ekadashi dates, vrat timings, parana time, significance and fasting rules

In a year there are 24 Ekadashi’s which means there are two Ekadashi every month. For the month of October the two dates are 6th October and 22nd October. Indrani Ekadashi will be observed on October 6th, 2026 while Papankusha Ekadashi will be observed on 22nd October.

When is Ekadashi in October 2026?

6th October: Indrani Ekadashi
22nd October: Papankusha Ekadashi


October 2026 will have two Ekadashi observances, each carrying its own spiritual significance. Indira Ekadashi, observed during Pitru Paksha, is traditionally associated with prayers and rituals for the well-being of ancestors. Later in the month, Papankusha Ekadashi falls during Shukla Paksha and is linked with devotion, self-discipline and spiritual cleansing. Despite their different traditional meanings, both Ekadashi vrats are commonly observed through fasting, Lord Vishnu worship, prayers, charity and other devotional practices.

October 2026 Ekadashi Dates

October 2026 will have two Ekadashi observances. Indira Ekadashi will be observed on October 6, 2026 (Tuesday) while Papankusha Ekadashi will fall on October 22, 2026 (Thursday). Devotees observe both occasions with fasting, prayers and Lord Vishnu worship. The exact fasting and Parana timings may vary depending on the location, so devotees should refer to their local Panchang for the precise timings.

Indrani Ekadashi 2026 Date

Indira Ekadashi will be observed on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. According to the Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi will begin at 2:07 AM on October 6 and end at 12:34 AM on October 7.

The observance holds special significance as it falls during the Pitru Paksha period. Devotees traditionally observe a fast, worship Lord Vishnu and remember their ancestors through prayers and devotional rituals.

Indira Ekadashi 2026 Parana Time

The Parana, or the ritual breaking of the Ekadashi fast, is performed after sunrise on Dwadashi. In New Delhi, the Parana window on October 7 begins at 6:17 AM and will end at 8:38 AM. Panchang calculations can produce different Parana windows depending on the location, so devotees should check the timings for their city.

What Is Parana?

Parana refers to breaking the Ekadashi fast after sunrise on Dwadashi. Traditional guidance recommends ending the fast within the prescribed Dwadashi period and following the Parana timing given in the local Panchang.

Indira Ekadashi Fasting Rules

Devotees may observe the Indira Ekadashi fast according to their health, family traditions and personal religious practices. Depending on individual practice, fasting may involve consuming only water, having fruits and other permitted foods, or eating a single non-grain meal. Grains and cereals are traditionally avoided during Ekadashi fasting.

Indira Ekadashi Significance

Indira Ekadashi is traditionally associated with prayers for the spiritual welfare of ancestors. As the observance falls during Pitru Paksha, it holds particular importance for devotees who combine Lord Vishnu worship with remembrance of departed family members.

Fasting, prayer, charity and other devotional activities are commonly associated with the observance. Devotees seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings while offering prayers for the peace and spiritual well-being of their ancestors.

Papankusha Ekadashi 2026 Date

The second Ekadashi observance in October 2026, Papankusha Ekadashi, will be observed on Thursday, October 22. The Ekadashi tithi will begin at 2:11 PM on October 21 and end at 2:47 PM on October 22.

Papankusha Ekadashi is traditionally dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its name is associated with overcoming sins and negative actions through devotion, self-discipline and righteous conduct.

Papankusha Ekadashi Vrat And Parana Time

The Papankusha Ekadashi Parana window is approximately 6:27 AM to 10:12 AM on October 23, 2026. Since the Parana timing depends on the local sunrise and the Dwadashi tithi, devotees in other cities should follow their local Panchang for the exact time.

Papankusha Ekadashi Significance

Papankusha Ekadashi is regarded as an important Vishnu vrat in the Hindu lunar calendar. The day is traditionally dedicated to fasting, prayer, meditation and charitable activities. The observance is associated with seeking forgiveness, spiritual purification and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Ekadashi Vrat Rituals In October 2026

• While customs may differ across families and regions, some common Ekadashi practices include:
• Taking a ritual bath and making a Sankalp for the fast.
• Worshipping Lord Vishnu with flowers, lamps, fruits and other offerings.
• Reciting Vishnu mantras or reading devotional scriptures.
• Observing the fast according to one's health and family tradition.
• Avoiding grains and cereals during the vrat.
• Giving charity and helping those in need.
• Spending the day in prayer and other devotional activities.
• Breaking the fast during the prescribed Dwadashi Parana period.

Some devotees observe a complete fast, while others follow fruit-based or other permitted fasting diets. Traditional practices also describe different levels of fasting, meaning the vrat may be observed differently depending on an individual's health, family customs and religious tradition.