Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Padmini Ekadashi
Padmini Ekadashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Adhik Maas (the leap month that occurs approximately once every 32–33 months in the Hindu lunisolar calendar). Because Adhik Maas is itself a month of extraordinary spiritual potency, the Ekadashi falling within it carries merit said to equal one thousand regular Ekadashis. This Ekadashi is named after Padmini, the lotus goddess, symbolizing purity, divine beauty, and the unfolding of spiritual wisdom. Lord Vishnu is particularly pleased by fasting and worship on this day, granting boons that are otherwise very difficult to receive.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Padmini Ekadashi bestows merit equivalent to one thousand regular Ekadashis, making it one of the most powerful fasting days in the entire Hindu calendar. It purifies the soul deeply, removes long-standing obstacles caused by past karma, and accelerates spiritual evolution significantly. Devotees receive special grace from Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi who is also invoked through the lotus symbolism of the day. It grants boons related to prosperity, progeny, good health, and liberation, and is especially powerful for those who have missed regular Ekadashi fasts throughout the year.
Procedure
Padmini Ekadashi deserves especially elaborate worship given its exceptional merit. On Dashami evening, observe a light meal and take the Sankalpa (vow) to fast sincerely. On Ekadashi, rise at Brahma Muhurta, bathe in clean water mixed with sesame or sacred river water, and dress in clean white or yellow clothes. Set up a beautiful altar with a lotus flower as the central offering to Lord Vishnu. Offer sixteen traditional upacharas (ritual services). Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama, Purusha Sukta, and Adhik Maas Vishnu stotras specifically composed for this month. Read the Padmini Ekadashi Katha. Observe a night vigil with continuous Vishnu bhajans. Donate generously to Brahmins and the poor on Dwadashi.
When to Observe
Padmini Ekadashi occurs only during Adhik Maas (Purushottam Maas), the intercalary leap month added to the Hindu lunisolar calendar approximately every 32–33 months to synchronize it with the solar year. It falls on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi (11th day of the bright fortnight) of this leap month. Devotees must check their Panchang to identify the year Adhik Maas occurs and its corresponding Ekadashi date, as this rare Ekadashi does not appear every year.
Fasting Rules
Observe complete Ekadashi fasting rules: no grains, pulses, onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food. Given the extraordinary spiritual opportunity of Adhik Maas Ekadashi, complete nirjala (waterless) fasting is strongly recommended for those with good health. If nirjala is not possible, a fruit-and-milk fast is the next best option. Avoid sleeping during the day. Mental purity — avoiding anger, lust, jealousy, and negative speech — is especially important on Padmini Ekadashi as the spiritual field is highly amplified.
How to Break the Fast
Break the Padmini Ekadashi fast on the morning of Dwadashi during the Paran time window. Begin with Panchamrit or Tulsi water as an offering to Lord Vishnu before eating. Recite a prayer of gratitude for the immense spiritual merit earned. Donate generously — food, clothing, or money — to Brahmins and the poor, as charity on Adhik Maas Dwadashi multiplies the merit many times over. Then eat a wholesome sattvik meal with family, sharing the joy of having completed this rare and extraordinary Ekadashi fast.
FAQ
Q.What is Padmini Ekadashi?
Padmini Ekadashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Adhik Maas (the leap month that occurs approximately once every 32–33 months in the Hindu lunisolar calendar). Because Adhik Maas is itself a month of extraordinary spiritual potency, the ...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Padmini Ekadashi?
Observe complete Ekadashi fasting rules: no grains, pulses, onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food. Given the extraordinary spiritual opportunity of Adhik Maas Ekadashi, complete nirjala (waterless) fasting is strongly recommended for those with good health. If nirjala is not possible, a fruit-and-milk fast is the next best option. Avoid sleeping during the day. Mental purity — avoiding anger, lust, jealousy, and negative speech — is especially important on Padmini Ekadashi as the spiritual field is highly amplified.
Q.When should Padmini Ekadashi be observed?
Padmini Ekadashi occurs only during Adhik Maas (Purushottam Maas), the intercalary leap month added to the Hindu lunisolar calendar approximately every 32–33 months to synchronize it with the solar year. It falls on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi (11th day of the bright fortnight) of this leap month. Devotees must check their Panchang to identify the year Adhik Maas occurs and its corresponding Ekadashi date, as this rare Ekadashi does not appear every year.
Q.What are the benefits of Padmini Ekadashi?
Padmini Ekadashi bestows merit equivalent to one thousand regular Ekadashis, making it one of the most powerful fasting days in the entire Hindu calendar. It purifies the soul deeply, removes long-standing obstacles caused by past karma, and accelerates spiritual evolution significantly. Devotees receive special grace from Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi who is also invoked through the lotus symbolism of the day. It grants boons related to prosperity, progeny, good health, and liberation, and is especially powerful for those who have missed regular Ekadashi fasts throughout the year.