If you grew up Hindu, you've probably heard a parent or grandparent say “today is Ekadashi” — often followed by a reminder about fasting. But what is Ekadashi, exactly? And why is it considered so important in Hinduism?
What Does Ekadashi Mean?
Ekadashi literally means “the eleventh” in Sanskrit. It refers to the eleventh day (tithi) of each lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. Since there are two fortnights in every lunar month — one waxing (Shukla Paksha) and one waning (Krishna Paksha) — Ekadashi occurs twice a month, roughly every 15 days.
There are 24 Ekadashis in a regular Hindu year, and each one has a unique name and spiritual significance. Some of the most well-known include Nirjala Ekadashi, Devshayani Ekadashi, and Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
Why Do Hindus Fast on Ekadashi?
Ekadashi fasting is one of the most widely observed practices in Hinduism. The tradition comes from the Puranas, where Lord Vishnu is said to have declared Ekadashi as a sacred day for worship and self-discipline. Fasting on this day is believed to purify the mind and body, and bring the devotee closer to the divine.
Beyond the spiritual dimension, Ekadashi fasting also has practical roots. The lunar cycle affects digestion and metabolism, and fasting on the eleventh day gives the digestive system a regular reset. Many Ayurvedic practitioners recommend periodic fasting aligned with the lunar calendar.
What Can You Eat on Ekadashi?
Ekadashi fasting rules vary by family and tradition, but the most common guidelines are:
- No grains or cereals — rice, wheat, oats, and similar grains are avoided
- No beans or lentils — dal and legumes are typically skipped
- Fruits and nuts are fine — fresh fruit, dry fruits, and nuts are the staple Ekadashi foods
- Milk and dairy are usually allowed — milk, yogurt, and paneer are acceptable in most traditions
- Certain vegetables are allowed — potatoes, sweet potatoes, and some root vegetables, cooked with rock salt (sendha namak) rather than regular salt
Some devotees observe a strict “nirjala” (waterless) fast on specific Ekadashis, consuming nothing at all — not even water — for the entire day. This is most commonly done on Nirjala Ekadashi in the month of Jyeshtha (May/June).
How to Observe Ekadashi
Observing Ekadashi can be surprisingly easy once you build a routine. Here are some practical tips:
- Know the dates — Ekadashi dates change every month since they follow the lunar calendar. Check a Hindu panchang to see when the next Ekadashi falls.
- Prep your meals — Stock up on fruits, nuts, sabudana (tapioca), and rock salt. Most Indian grocery stores carry Ekadashi-friendly items.
- Start light — If a full fast feels difficult, begin by simply skipping grains for the day. Any level of observance counts.
- Add a spiritual element — Pair your fast with chanting, reading a spiritual text, or visiting a nearby temple.
Breaking the Fast
The Ekadashi fast is traditionally broken the next morning, on the twelfth day (Dwadashi), after sunrise and within a specific time window called the “parana” period. This window is calculated based on the exact time the Dwadashi tithi ends, and varies by location.
The fast is broken with a simple meal — typically grain-based, since grains were avoided during the fast. Many families break the fast with prasad (blessed food) if they visited a temple.
Why Ekadashi Matters Today
In a busy modern life, Ekadashi offers a built-in rhythm of mindfulness. It's a twice-monthly reminder to slow down, eat simply, and reconnect with something larger than the daily routine. You don't need to be deeply religious to benefit from it — the combination of dietary discipline and spiritual reflection is valuable on its own.