Ekadashi 2025: Dates, Significance, Rituals, and Benefits
Introduction
Ekadashi is one of the most sacred fasting days in Hinduism, observed twice every month during the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) lunar phases. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, and is considered highly auspicious for spiritual growth, devotion, and purification of the soul.
Devotees observe Ekadashi Vrat by fasting, chanting prayers, reading scriptures, and engaging in righteous acts. The day holds immense significance in various Hindu texts and is believed to help attain Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
This article provides a detailed overview of Ekadashi in 2025, including its dates, importance, rituals, types, and benefits.
List of Ekadashi Dates in 2025
Below is the complete list of Ekadashi dates for 2025:
| Month | Date | Ekadashi Name |
|---|---|---|
| January | January 10, 2025 (Friday) | Pausha Putrada Ekadashi |
| January 25, 2025 (Saturday) | Shattila Ekadashi | |
| February | February 8, 2025 (Saturday) | Jaya Ekadashi |
| February 24, 2025 (Monday) | Vijaya Ekadashi | |
| March | March 10, 2025 (Monday) | Amalaki Ekadashi |
| March 25, 2025 (Tuesday) | Papamochini Ekadashi | |
| April | April 8, 2025 (Tuesday) | Kamada Ekadashi |
| April 24, 2025 (Thursday) | Varuthini Ekadashi | |
| May | May 8, 2025 (Thursday) | Mohini Ekadashi |
| May 23, 2025 (Friday) | Apara Ekadashi | |
| June | June 6, 2025 (Friday) | Nirjala Ekadashi |
| June 21, 2025 (Saturday) | Yogini Ekadashi | |
| July | July 6, 2025 (Sunday) | Devshayani Ekadashi |
| July 21, 2025 (Monday) | Kamika Ekadashi | |
| August | August 5, 2025 (Tuesday) | Shravan Putrada Ekadashi |
| August 19, 2025 (Tuesday) | Aja Ekadashi | |
| September | September 3, 2025 (Wednesday) | Parivartini Ekadashi |
| September 17, 2025 (Wednesday) | Indira Ekadashi | |
| October | October 3, 2025 (Friday) | Papankusha Ekadashi |
| October 17, 2025 (Friday) | Rama Ekadashi | |
| November | November 2, 2025 (Sunday) | Devutthana Ekadashi |
| November 16, 2025 (Sunday) | Utpanna Ekadashi | |
| December | December 1, 2025 (Monday) | Mokshada Ekadashi |
| December 16, 2025 (Tuesday) | Saphala Ekadashi |
Note: Ekadashi timings may vary based on the location. Devotees should refer to their local Panchang for exact timings.
Significance of Ekadashi
Ekadashi is considered the most auspicious day for devotion to Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu scriptures, fasting on this day helps cleanse the body and mind, removes sins, and grants spiritual merit (Punya). It is believed that observing Ekadashi Vrat brings peace, prosperity, and divine blessings.
Spiritual and Mythological Significance
- It is mentioned in the Padma Purana that observing Ekadashi Vrat frees a person from past sins.
- Lord Krishna emphasized the importance of Ekadashi Vrat in the Bhagavad Gita, stating that it helps in attaining salvation.
- The Vishnu Purana describes Ekadashi Vrat as a means to attain purity and higher consciousness.
Types of Ekadashi and Their Benefits
Each Ekadashi has a unique significance, associated rituals, and blessings. Here are some important Ekadashis and their significance:
- Nirjala Ekadashi (June 6, 2025) – The most powerful Ekadashi Vrat, observed without food or water, grants the same merit as fasting for all Ekadashis in a year.
- Putrada Ekadashi (January 10 & August 5, 2025) – Observed for child blessings and family prosperity.
- Amalaki Ekadashi (March 10, 2025) – Dedicated to the sacred Amla tree and purification of the soul.
- Mohini Ekadashi (May 8, 2025) – Grants intelligence and wisdom, named after Lord Vishnu’s Mohini form.
- Parivartini Ekadashi (September 3, 2025) – Marks the symbolic sleeping turn of Lord Vishnu.
- Mokshada Ekadashi (December 1, 2025) – Observing this Ekadashi Vrat is believed to grant liberation (Moksha).
Ekadashi Vrat (Fasting) Rituals
The Ekadashi Vrat is observed with strict discipline and devotion. Here are the general rules:
Pre-Fasting Rituals (Dashami Tithi)
- Avoid consuming grains, lentils, garlic, onion, and non-vegetarian food the day before Ekadashi.
- Take a Sankalp (pledge) to observe the Ekadashi Vrat with devotion.
Fasting on Ekadashi
- Complete fasting without food and water (Nirjala) is ideal, but partial fasting with fruits, milk, and nuts is allowed.
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Bhagavad Gita, or Vishnu Stotras for divine blessings.
- Avoid gambling, lying, anger, and negative thoughts.
- Visit a Vishnu temple and offer prayers.
Breaking the Fast (Dwadashi Parana)
- The Ekadashi Vrat should be broken the next day (Dwadashi) with Satvik (pure vegetarian) food.
- Donating food and essentials to Brahmins and the needy enhances the benefits of the Ekadashi Vrat.
Benefits of Observing Ekadashi Vrat
Spiritual Benefits
- Attainment of peace, prosperity, and divine blessings.
- Purification of body, mind, and soul.
- Enhances focus, discipline, and self-control.
Health Benefits
- Detoxifies the body and improves digestion.
- Helps in weight management and boosting immunity.
- Strengthens mental resilience and inner peace.
Conclusion
Ekadashi is a sacred day that brings spiritual upliftment, health benefits, and divine grace. Observing Ekadashi Vrat in 2025 with sincerity and devotion can help attain peace, prosperity, and ultimate salvation (Moksha).
May Lord Vishnu bless you on every Ekadashi Vrat! Jai Shri Vishnu! 🙏
