Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat
Mokshada Ekadashi falls on the Shukla Ekadashi of Margashirsha month and is one of the most spiritually significant Ekadashis of the year. According to the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana, this is the very day Lord Krishna recited the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, making it also known as Gita Jayanti. Observing this fast with devotion is said to bestow liberation (moksha) upon even deceased ancestors, freeing them from lower realms. The name literally means "Ekadashi that grants liberation."
Last updated: 24 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Grants liberation (moksha) to the devotee and their ancestors, removes the gravest sins, earns the merit of donating gold and performing a thousand yajnas, bestows spiritual wisdom equal to reading the Bhagavad Gita, and ensures freedom from the cycle of rebirth.
Procedure
Begin Dashami evening with sattvik food. On Ekadashi, rise early and bathe. Perform Vishnu puja with special reverence — offer tulsi, yellow flowers, and incense. Read or listen to the Bhagavad Gita (especially on Gita Jayanti). Chant Vishnu Sahasranama. If observing for the liberation of ancestors, perform tarpan (water offering) for them. Stay awake at night chanting Vishnu names. Break fast on Dwadashi.
When to Observe
Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi — once per year (November/December). Coincides with Gita Jayanti, the anniversary of the Bhagavad Gita.
Fasting Rules
Avoid grains, rice, lentils, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Fruits, milk, sabudana, and nuts are permitted. Nirjala fast earns exceptional merit on this day. Avoid all negative speech and actions.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on Dwadashi after sunrise puja. Offer water to Tulsi, perform Vishnu aarti, then consume prasad. Donate food or items to a Brahmin to amplify the merit of the fast.
FAQ
Q.What is Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat?
Mokshada Ekadashi falls on the Shukla Ekadashi of Margashirsha month and is one of the most spiritually significant Ekadashis of the year. According to the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana, this is the very day Lord Krishna recited the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna ...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat?
Avoid grains, rice, lentils, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Fruits, milk, sabudana, and nuts are permitted. Nirjala fast earns exceptional merit on this day. Avoid all negative speech and actions.
Q.When should Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat be observed?
Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi — once per year (November/December). Coincides with Gita Jayanti, the anniversary of the Bhagavad Gita.
Q.What are the benefits of Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat?
Grants liberation (moksha) to the devotee and their ancestors, removes the gravest sins, earns the merit of donating gold and performing a thousand yajnas, bestows spiritual wisdom equal to reading the Bhagavad Gita, and ensures freedom from the cycle of rebirth.