Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Mokshada Ekadashi
Mokshada Ekadashi falls on Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi and holds a uniquely exalted place among all Ekadashis because it is the day on which Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. This Ekadashi is therefore also celebrated as Gita Jayanti — the birthday of the Bhagavad Gita. The name "Mokshada" means "that which grants liberation (moksha)," and the scriptures state that fasting on this day can liberate not only the devotee but also their ancestors from suffering in the afterlife. It is one of the most spiritually significant days in the entire Vaishnava calendar.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Mokshada Ekadashi grants direct liberation (moksha) to sincere devotees, freeing them from the cycle of birth and death. It is particularly unique in that the merit of fasting on this day can be transferred to deceased ancestors, helping them attain liberation from hellish realms. The recitation of the Bhagavad Gita on this day carries immense merit equivalent to the merit of all other spiritual practices combined. Devotees gain wisdom, clarity of purpose, relief from karmic suffering, and the direct grace of Lord Krishna who spoke the Gita on this very day.
Procedure
Mokshada Ekadashi demands especially profound devotional observance. On Dashami evening, take a vow (Sankalpa) to fast and dedicate the merit of the fast to the liberation of your ancestors. On Ekadashi morning, rise early, bathe, and set up an altar with an image of Lord Krishna (especially in his Virata or Gita-teaching form). Offer yellow flowers, tulsi, and a ghee lamp. The central practice of this Ekadashi is the recitation of the complete Bhagavad Gita — read or chant all 18 chapters if possible, or at minimum Chapter 15 (Purushottama Yoga) and Chapter 18 (Moksha Sannyas Yoga). Listen to or deliver a discourse on the Bhagavad Gita. Observe night vigil with continuous Gita recitation and Krishna bhajans. Perform Pitru Tarpan (ancestral offerings) on this day.
When to Observe
Mokshada Ekadashi is observed on Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi — the 11th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Margashirsha (November/December). This is one of the most important Ekadashis of the year. It coincides with Gita Jayanti, the anniversary of the day Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, making it doubly sacred. It is observed by Vaishnavas, followers of ISKCON, and Hindus worldwide.
Fasting Rules
Observe complete Ekadashi fasting: no grains, pulses, onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food. Given the liberation-granting power of this Ekadashi, a nirjala (waterless) fast is ideal. Those who cannot observe nirjala may take fruits and milk. Brahmacharya must be strictly observed. Avoid all entertainment and worldly distractions. Dedicate the full day to reading, reciting, or listening to the Bhagavad Gita — this is the defining practice of Mokshada Ekadashi and amplifies the spiritual merit of the fast immeasurably.
How to Break the Fast
Break the Mokshada Ekadashi fast on Dwadashi morning during the Paran window. Begin by offering the Paran puja to Lord Krishna, reciting a verse from the Bhagavad Gita as a final tribute before eating. Sip Panchamrit or Tulsi water as prasad. Perform Pitru Tarpan on this morning if not done the previous day. Feed Brahmins and donate generously to religious causes, particularly to institutions that promote the study and dissemination of the Bhagavad Gita. Then eat a clean sattvik meal with your family, sharing the divine merit and blessings received through this most sacred Ekadashi.
FAQ
Q.What is Mokshada Ekadashi?
Mokshada Ekadashi falls on Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi and holds a uniquely exalted place among all Ekadashis because it is the day on which Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. This Ekadashi is therefore...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Mokshada Ekadashi?
Observe complete Ekadashi fasting: no grains, pulses, onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food. Given the liberation-granting power of this Ekadashi, a nirjala (waterless) fast is ideal. Those who cannot observe nirjala may take fruits and milk. Brahmacharya must be strictly observed. Avoid all entertainment and worldly distractions. Dedicate the full day to reading, reciting, or listening to the Bhagavad Gita — this is the defining practice of Mokshada Ekadashi and amplifies the spiritual merit of the fast immeasurably.
Q.When should Mokshada Ekadashi be observed?
Mokshada Ekadashi is observed on Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi — the 11th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Margashirsha (November/December). This is one of the most important Ekadashis of the year. It coincides with Gita Jayanti, the anniversary of the day Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, making it doubly sacred. It is observed by Vaishnavas, followers of ISKCON, and Hindus worldwide.
Q.What are the benefits of Mokshada Ekadashi?
Mokshada Ekadashi grants direct liberation (moksha) to sincere devotees, freeing them from the cycle of birth and death. It is particularly unique in that the merit of fasting on this day can be transferred to deceased ancestors, helping them attain liberation from hellish realms. The recitation of the Bhagavad Gita on this day carries immense merit equivalent to the merit of all other spiritual practices combined. Devotees gain wisdom, clarity of purpose, relief from karmic suffering, and the direct grace of Lord Krishna who spoke the Gita on this very day.