Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Haribodhini Ekadashi Vrat
Haribodhini Ekadashi (also called Devuthani or Prabodhini Ekadashi) falls on the 11th day of Shukla Paksha in Kartik month. It marks the end of Chaturmas — the four-month cosmic sleep of Lord Vishnu — when he awakens from his yogic slumber. This is one of the most sacred Ekadashis of the year, signifying the resumption of auspicious activities like marriages and new ventures. Devotees fast and celebrate with lamps and devotional singing throughout the night.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Removes sins accumulated over Chaturmas, marks the reopening of auspicious muhurtas for marriages, grants moksha equivalent to performing all Vedic yajnas, bestows Vishnu's highest blessings, and ensures spiritual liberation.
Procedure
On Dashami evening eat sattvik food. On Ekadashi, rise before sunrise, bathe, and worship Vishnu with tulsi, flowers, and lamps. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama. Keep nirjala or phalahar fast. In the evening light a large number of diyas and perform Tulsi Vivah if desired. Stay awake at night singing bhajans.
When to Observe
Kartik Shukla Ekadashi — falls in October or November. This single day marks the end of Chaturmas and the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his four-month yogic sleep.
Fasting Rules
Avoid rice, wheat, lentils, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Nirjala fast yields maximum merit. Phalahar (fruits, milk, sabudana, nuts) is acceptable for those who cannot observe nirjala.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on Dwadashi after sunrise. Offer water to Tulsi, recite a short Vishnu prayer, and eat amla or sesame-based food first as per tradition.
FAQ
Q.What is Haribodhini Ekadashi Vrat?
Haribodhini Ekadashi (also called Devuthani or Prabodhini Ekadashi) falls on the 11th day of Shukla Paksha in Kartik month. It marks the end of Chaturmas — the four-month cosmic sleep of Lord Vishnu — when he awakens from his yogic slumber. This is o...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Haribodhini Ekadashi Vrat?
Avoid rice, wheat, lentils, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Nirjala fast yields maximum merit. Phalahar (fruits, milk, sabudana, nuts) is acceptable for those who cannot observe nirjala.
Q.When should Haribodhini Ekadashi Vrat be observed?
Kartik Shukla Ekadashi — falls in October or November. This single day marks the end of Chaturmas and the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his four-month yogic sleep.
Q.What are the benefits of Haribodhini Ekadashi Vrat?
Removes sins accumulated over Chaturmas, marks the reopening of auspicious muhurtas for marriages, grants moksha equivalent to performing all Vedic yajnas, bestows Vishnu's highest blessings, and ensures spiritual liberation.