Papamochani Ekadashi 2026 Date: When to observe the vrat, 14th or 15th March?

Papamochani Ekadashi, the sacred Ekadashi observed between Holika Dahan and Chaitra Navratri, will be celebrated in 2026 on Sunday, March 15. It is considered the last Ekadashi of the year and falls just before Yugadi, marking an important day for devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Ekadashi Tithi Timings for Papamochani Ekadashi 2026

For 2026, the Ekadashi tithi and Parana timings are as follows:

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 08:10 AM on 14 March 2026
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 09:16 AM on 15 March 2026
• Parana Day (16 March) Time: 06:30 AM to 08:54 AM
• Dwadashi End Moment: 09:40 AM

Observing these timings correctly is crucial for devotees to follow the fast appropriately.

Significance of Papamochani Ekadashi

Papamochani Ekadashi is a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to liberate devotees from sins. The word “Papamochani” literally means “remover of sins.” Observing this Ekadashi is considered highly auspicious, especially as it comes during the Krishna Paksha of Chaitra in the North Indian calendar and Krishna Paksha of Phalguna in the South Indian calendar.

Ekadashi Fasting Rules for Papamochani Ekadashi

Devotees observing Papamochani Ekadashi are required to fast from sunrise on the Ekadashi day until the Parana on Dwadashi.

• Parana should be performed after sunrise, preferably in the Pratahkal (early morning) period.
• Breaking the fast during Hari Vasara, the first one-fourth of Dwadashi Tithi, should be avoided.
• If one misses the early Parana, it can be done after Madhyahna (midday) but before Dwadashi ends.

Ekadashi Fasting Practices: Alternate and Consecutive Days

At times, Ekadashi fasting may be observed on two consecutive days.

• Smarthas (householders) are advised to observe the fast on the first day only.
• Sanyasis, widows, and seekers of Moksha may observe the alternate day fast.
• Devotees who wish for the love and affection of Lord Vishnu may fast on both days.

This ensures that each devotee observes the fast according to their spiritual path and devotion.

Papamochani Ekadashi 2026 in North and South India

Despite differences in calendar calculations, both North Indian (Purnimanta) and South Indian (Amanta) traditions observe Papamochani Ekadashi on the same day in 2026. In the Gregorian calendar, it usually falls in March or April, making it convenient for devotees across India to follow the ritual on a single date.
Inputs from agencies