Jaya Ekadashi 2026 Date: Is it on Jan 28 or 29? Check prana time, fasting rules, do’s and don’ts devotees should know

Jaya Ekadashi, observed during the Shukla Paksha of the Magha month, is considered an auspicious day for the worship of Lord Krishna. According to religious belief, devotion offered on this Ekadashi helps devotees wash away past sins and reduces life’s sufferings. It is believed that remembering Krishna with love, chanting his name, or meditating on Jaya Ekadashi helps remove the negative effects of past deeds. Devotees believe that Lord Vasudev himself takes away their troubles. It is believed that worship performed on Jaya Ekadashi helps fulfil wishes and brings special blessings.

Jaya Ekadashi 2026 date and time

According to the Panchang, Magha Shukla Ekadashi will begin at 4.34 pm on January 28 and will end at 1.56 pm on January 29. As the Ekadashi tithi prevails on January 29 during daytime, the Jaya Ekadashi fast will be observed on Thursday, January 29.

Jaya Ekadashi vrat rules

Jaya Ekadashi vrat is observed in two ways: Nirjala and Falahari. Healthy people may observe the Nirjala fast, which involves abstaining from food and water. Those who are elderly or unwell are advised to follow the Falahari fast, which allows fruits and water.


On this day, devotees worship Lord Krishna and offer fruits, Panchamrit and other simple offerings. Many observe the fast by consuming only fruits and water throughout the day.

What to do on Jaya Ekadashi

For planetary peace, devotees are advised to place a picture or idol of Lord Vishnu on a yellow cloth facing the east. A lamp is lit and a kalash is installed. Clothes, fruits, flowers, betel leaves and betel nuts are offered. Devotees then pray for relief from planetary troubles by offering water with the right hand.

In the evening, the Jaya Ekadashi vrat katha is listened to, followed by Falahari food. If possible, devotees chant any mantra of Lord Vishnu or Shri Krishna at night. These remedies, performed with faith, are believed to bring the grace of Shri Krishna.

Jaya Ekadashi: What to avoid

On Jaya Ekadashi, devotees are encouraged to help the needy and take a vow to support those in distress. Lighting a ghee lamp under peepal and banana trees is considered auspicious. People are advised to stay away from tamasic food, negative thoughts and improper behaviour, and to focus the mind on devotion to Lord Krishna.

Those who are not in good health should avoid strict fasting and instead follow the vrat rules without observing a fast. By keeping these guidelines in mind, devotees believe they can gain the spiritual benefits of Jaya Ekadashi and find relief from many difficulties in life.