Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Parsva Ekadashi Vrat
Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Padma Ekadashi or Parivartini Ekadashi, falls on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Bhadrapada month (August–September). On this day, Lord Vishnu is believed to turn sides (parsva = side/flank) in his cosmic Yoga Nidra sleep — an event celebrated as a sign that he will soon awaken on Devuthani Ekadashi. It is also the day associated with Lord Vamana (the dwarf avatar) who measured the three worlds in three strides. The Srimad Bhagavata Purana describes how bathing in sacred rivers and charity performed on this day yield incomparable merit.
Last updated: 24 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Earns merit of bathing in all sacred rivers, removes sins of this life and past lives, marks the turning point of Chaturmas with special grace, grants Vishnu's blessings through his Vamana form, and ensures liberation for the devotee.
Procedure
Bathe early and worship Lord Vishnu in his Vamana (dwarf) form — offer yellow flowers, yellow sweets, and tulsi. Recite Vamana Stotra and the Parsva Ekadashi Katha. Perform a special ritual of turning the Vishnu idol or image as a symbolic representation of his turning sides. Fast nirjala or on phalahar. Observe night vigil with Vishnu bhajans.
When to Observe
Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Bhadrapada month (August–September). Occurs once a year during Chaturmas.
Fasting Rules
Avoid all grains, rice, wheat, onion, garlic, lentils, and non-vegetarian food. Phalahar or nirjala fast. Donation of food, clothes, or gold on this day is highly meritorious — especially to Brahmins.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on Dwadashi after sunrise. Perform Vamana puja, offer tulsi water, then eat prasad. Donate clothes or food to a Brahmin as Parsva Dwadashi charity. If possible, visit a Vishnu temple for darshan.
FAQ
Q.What is Parsva Ekadashi Vrat?
Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Padma Ekadashi or Parivartini Ekadashi, falls on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Bhadrapada month (August–September). On this day, Lord Vishnu is believed to turn sides (parsva = side/flank) in his cosmic Yoga Nidra sleep...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Parsva Ekadashi Vrat?
Avoid all grains, rice, wheat, onion, garlic, lentils, and non-vegetarian food. Phalahar or nirjala fast. Donation of food, clothes, or gold on this day is highly meritorious — especially to Brahmins.
Q.When should Parsva Ekadashi Vrat be observed?
Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Bhadrapada month (August–September). Occurs once a year during Chaturmas.
Q.What are the benefits of Parsva Ekadashi Vrat?
Earns merit of bathing in all sacred rivers, removes sins of this life and past lives, marks the turning point of Chaturmas with special grace, grants Vishnu's blessings through his Vamana form, and ensures liberation for the devotee.