Shattila Ekadashi 2026: Date, Time, Significance, Vrat Vidhi and Parana Details
Shattila Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually significant Ekadashis observed in the Hindu calendar. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this sacred fasting day emphasizes purification, charity, devotion, and self-discipline, with special importance given to the use of til (sesame seeds). The word Shattila literally means six forms of til, symbolizing the six ways sesame seeds are used for spiritual merit on this day.
In 2026, Shattila Ekadashi holds added importance as it falls in the holy month of Magha, a period considered highly auspicious for penance and daan (charity).
Shattila Ekadashi 2026: Date and Day
- Shattila Ekadashi Date: Wednesday, 14 January 2026
- Ekadashi Paksha: Krishna Paksha (Waning phase of the Moon)
- Month: Magha
Observing Shattila Ekadashi on a Wednesday is considered especially beneficial for those seeking freedom from past sins and obstacles related to health, finances, and spiritual growth.
Shattila Ekadashi 2026: Tithi Timings
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ekadashi Tithi timings for Shattila Ekadashi 2026 are as follows:
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins:
03:17 PM on 13 January 2026 - Ekadashi Tithi Ends:
05:52 PM on 14 January 2026
Devotees should observe the fast on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, as the Ekadashi Tithi prevails during sunrise on this day.
Parana Time for Shattila Ekadashi 2026
Parana refers to the ritual breaking of the Ekadashi fast on the following day, i.e., Dwadashi. It must be done within the prescribed auspicious time.
- Parana Date: Thursday, 15 January 2026
- Parana Time: 07:15 AM to 09:21 AM
- Dwadashi End Moment: 08:16 PM on 15 January 2026
⚠️ Parana should strictly be completed before the end of Dwadashi Tithi and preferably within the given time window for maximum spiritual benefit.
Spiritual Significance of Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi is observed to atone for sins committed knowingly or unknowingly, especially those related to food, wealth, and conduct. Scriptures state that offering til on this day is equal to performing major yajnas.
The six sacred uses of til on Shattila Ekadashi include:
- Til mixed in bath water
- Til used in food preparation
- Til offered in charity
- Til used in homa (fire ritual)
- Til applied in body anointment
- Til consumed as prasad
This Ekadashi is believed to:
- Remove karmic debts
- Bring prosperity and peace
- Bestow Vishnu’s divine blessings
- Provide protection from misfortune
Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi (Ritual Procedure)
Morning Rituals
- Wake up early during Brahma Muhurta
- Take a bath, preferably with til mixed water
- Wear clean or yellow clothes
- Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu with devotion
Puja and Fasting
- Observe nirjala vrat (waterless fast) or phalahar vrat as per capacity
- Offer til, flowers, incense, lamp, and tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu
- Chant Vishnu mantras or read Vishnu Sahasranama
- Avoid grains, rice, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food
Charity (Daan)
- Donate til, warm clothes, food, or money to the needy
- Feeding Brahmins is considered highly auspicious
Importance of Charity on Shattila Ekadashi
Charity performed on Shattila Ekadashi is believed to multiply manifold. Donating sesame seeds, blankets, and food during the cold Magha month is seen as an act of supreme compassion and dharma. It is said that even ancestors receive peace through such daan.
Who Should Observe Shattila Ekadashi?
- Devotees of Lord Vishnu
- Those seeking relief from financial or health problems
- Individuals aiming for spiritual purification
- People performing ancestral remedies
Even observing the vrat with pure intent and minimal rituals brings divine merit.
Conclusion
Shattila Ekadashi on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, is a powerful opportunity for spiritual cleansing, devotion, and charity. Observing the vrat with sincerity, using til in sacred ways, and breaking the fast at the correct Parana time (07:15 AM to 09:21 AM on 15 January 2026) can help devotees attain peace, prosperity, and divine grace.
May Lord Vishnu bless all devotees with health, harmony, and spiritual upliftment on this auspicious Shattila Ekadashi.
