Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Indira Ekadashi Vrat
Indira Ekadashi falls on the Krishna Ekadashi of the Ashwin month (September–October), during the Pitru Paksha fortnight — the auspicious 16-day period when Hindus perform rituals for deceased ancestors. Named after Indira (Goddess Lakshmi), this Ekadashi holds a unique power: it liberates ancestors trapped in lower realms (Naraka) and elevates them to Vishnu's abode Vaikuntha. The Brahma Vaivarta Purana narrates how King Indrasena observed this fast and freed his father's soul from hell. No other ritual during Pitru Paksha is considered as powerful for ancestral salvation as this Ekadashi.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Liberates ancestors from Naraka and grants them a place in Vaikuntha, removes the sins of 100 generations of the family lineage, provides peace (shanti) to restless ancestral souls, fulfils the duties of Pitru Tarpan for those unable to perform elaborate rituals, and earns the devotee immense merit.
Procedure
On Dashami, take a single sattvik meal at midday. Perform Shraddha and Tarpan for ancestors in the morning. On Ekadashi, rise before sunrise, bathe, and set up the altar with Vishnu (Madhusudana) idol or image. Offer tulsi, sesame seeds (til), and black sesame specifically for ancestral liberation. Recite the Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha. Chant "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" and the Vishnu Sahasranama. Donate food, clothes, or money to Brahmins in memory of ancestors.
When to Observe
Ashwin Krishna Ekadashi — once per year (September/October), during Pitru Paksha. Falls on the 11th day of the dark fortnight, just before Mahalaya Amavasya (Sarvapitri Amavasya).
Fasting Rules
No rice, wheat, lentils, onion, garlic, or meat. Avoid tamasic foods entirely during Pitru Paksha. Nirjala fast is most meritorious; phalahar is acceptable. Sesame seeds (til) in any permitted form (sesame laddoo, til water) are specifically auspicious on this day for ancestral rites.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on Dwadashi after sunrise. Before eating, offer water and sesame to ancestors with the prayer "May my ancestors be liberated." Donate food to a Brahmin. Then consume simple sattvik prasad.
FAQ
Q.What is Indira Ekadashi Vrat?
Indira Ekadashi falls on the Krishna Ekadashi of the Ashwin month (September–October), during the Pitru Paksha fortnight — the auspicious 16-day period when Hindus perform rituals for deceased ancestors. Named after Indira (Goddess Lakshmi), this Eka...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Indira Ekadashi Vrat?
No rice, wheat, lentils, onion, garlic, or meat. Avoid tamasic foods entirely during Pitru Paksha. Nirjala fast is most meritorious; phalahar is acceptable. Sesame seeds (til) in any permitted form (sesame laddoo, til water) are specifically auspicious on this day for ancestral rites.
Q.When should Indira Ekadashi Vrat be observed?
Ashwin Krishna Ekadashi — once per year (September/October), during Pitru Paksha. Falls on the 11th day of the dark fortnight, just before Mahalaya Amavasya (Sarvapitri Amavasya).
Q.What are the benefits of Indira Ekadashi Vrat?
Liberates ancestors from Naraka and grants them a place in Vaikuntha, removes the sins of 100 generations of the family lineage, provides peace (shanti) to restless ancestral souls, fulfils the duties of Pitru Tarpan for those unable to perform elaborate rituals, and earns the devotee immense merit.