Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Shattila Ekadashi Vrat
Shattila Ekadashi falls on the Krishna Ekadashi of the Magha month (January–February). The name derives from "Shat" (six) and "Tila" (sesame), referring to the six ways sesame seeds are used in this observance: bathing in water mixed with sesame, applying sesame paste to the body, offering sesame in a homa (fire ritual), drinking sesame water, eating sesame, and donating sesame to Brahmins. Sesame is considered highly purifying in Magha month and connected to ancestors (pitru). The Bhavishya Purana tells of a devout woman who performed great penances but never donated food to others. The sage Narada advised her to observe Shattila Ekadashi and donate sesame, which freed her from a life of spiritual poverty despite her austerities.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Purifies the body and soul through the sacred use of sesame, ensures liberation of ancestors, removes sins of greed and non-giving, grants the devotee Vishnu's realm after death, provides relief from skin diseases and bodily impurities, and earns the merit of donating gold equal to the weight of Mount Meru.
Procedure
This Ekadashi has a unique six-fold sesame ritual: (1) Add sesame to bath water and bathe. (2) Apply a paste of sesame and water to the body before bathing. (3) Perform a small sesame homa (fire offering) while chanting "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya." (4) Drink a small cup of sesame-infused water. (5) Eat sesame seeds (or til laddoo) as part of the phalahar. (6) Donate sesame generously to Brahmins or the poor. Worship Vishnu (Vishwambhar) with tulsi, flowers, and light. Recite the Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Katha. Donate food, clothing, and sesame to Brahmins.
When to Observe
Magha Krishna Ekadashi — once per year (January/February). Falls during Magha month, which is itself considered highly auspicious for bathing in sacred rivers (Magha Snan) and sesame-related charity.
Fasting Rules
No rice, grains, lentils, onion, garlic, or meat. Sesame in permitted forms (til water, til laddoo) is not only allowed but specifically prescribed. Phalahar is standard; nirjala is optional but highly meritorious. Do not skip the sesame donation — it is considered as essential as the fast itself.
How to Break the Fast
On Dwadashi, complete all six sesame actions if any were missed. Worship Vishnu and donate sesame generously before eating. Break fast with sesame-based sweets (til laddoo, til chikki) or simple phalahar. Give food and warm clothing to at least one person in need as your final act of the vrat.
FAQ
Q.What is Shattila Ekadashi Vrat?
Shattila Ekadashi falls on the Krishna Ekadashi of the Magha month (January–February). The name derives from "Shat" (six) and "Tila" (sesame), referring to the six ways sesame seeds are used in this observance: bathing in water mixed with sesame, app...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Shattila Ekadashi Vrat?
No rice, grains, lentils, onion, garlic, or meat. Sesame in permitted forms (til water, til laddoo) is not only allowed but specifically prescribed. Phalahar is standard; nirjala is optional but highly meritorious. Do not skip the sesame donation — it is considered as essential as the fast itself.
Q.When should Shattila Ekadashi Vrat be observed?
Magha Krishna Ekadashi — once per year (January/February). Falls during Magha month, which is itself considered highly auspicious for bathing in sacred rivers (Magha Snan) and sesame-related charity.
Q.What are the benefits of Shattila Ekadashi Vrat?
Purifies the body and soul through the sacred use of sesame, ensures liberation of ancestors, removes sins of greed and non-giving, grants the devotee Vishnu's realm after death, provides relief from skin diseases and bodily impurities, and earns the merit of donating gold equal to the weight of Mount Meru.