Amalaki Ekadashi 2026: This is how you can receive Lord Vishnu’s blessings

In Sanatan culture, the Ekadashi fast is considered the best means of self-purification, devotion, and salvation. Ekadashi, which falls during the Shukla and Krishna Pakshas of every month, not only observes fasting but also symbolizes control over the senses, stability of mind, and devotion to God. Ekadashi during the Shukla Paksha of the Phalguna month is called Amalaki Ekadashi, which is specifically dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the Amla tree. This Ekadashi opens the doors to good fortune, health, and spiritual progress in the lives of devotees.

When is Amalaki Ekadashi 2026?

In 2026, Amalaki Ekadashi will fall on February 27. According to the calendar, the Ekadashi date of the Shukla Paksha of the Phalguna month begins at 12:33 pm on February 27 and lasts until 10:32 pm on the same day. According to the belief of Udayatithi, the Amalaki Ekadashi fast will be observed on February 27th.

It is considered best to break the fast on February 28th between 6:54 am and 9:16 am.

Mythological Significance of Amalaki Ekadashi

The glory of Amalaki Ekadashi is described in detail in the Padma Purana and Brahmavaivarta Purana. According to a legend, in ancient times, there was a pious king named Vidhisrava, who was a devoted devotee of Lord Vishnu. All the people in his kingdom devoutly observed the Amalaki Ekadashi fast. Once, a hunter unknowingly observed this fast. Due to the virtuous effect of this fast, the same hunter was reborn as King Vidurtha in his next life and became a great, just, and benevolent ruler.

This story makes it clear that even if the Amalaki Ekadashi fast is observed unknowingly, it leads one to virtue and salvation.

Worship of the Amla Tree

Worshiping the Amla tree on Amalaki Ekadashi holds special significance. Scriptures say that Lord Vishnu himself resides in the Amla tree on this day. Amla is not only a medicinal fruit but is also considered extremely sacred from a spiritual perspective. It is believed that all the gods and goddesses, including Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, reside in it.

In Ayurveda, Amla is called the “nectar fruit,” which provides health, vitality, and radiance to the body. Sitting under its shade and chanting, meditating, and singing hymns increases mental peace and spiritual energy. Therefore, worshipping Lord Vishnu under the Amla tree on Amalaki Ekadashi is considered extremely fruitful.

Worship Method for Amalaki Ekadashi

On Amalaki Ekadashi, wake up in the Brahma Muhurta in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. Afterward, meditate on Lord Vishnu and take a vow to observe the fast. Offer sandalwood paste, whole grains, yellow flowers, basil leaves, and amla (Indian gooseberry) to Lord Vishnu. Chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya” and listen to the Vishnu Sahasranama or the Ekadashi fast story.

After this, worship the Amla tree. Offer water to the tree, light incense sticks and lamps, offer sacred thread and turmeric, and circumambulate it. In the evening, worship Lakshmi and Narayan, sing bhajans and kirtans, and hold a vigil at night. Break the fast as per the prescribed rituals on the Dwadashi Tithi the next day.

The Glory of Charity

In Sanatan Dharma, charity is considered a means to attain salvation. Donations made on holy festivals like Amalaki Ekadashi are considered to yield manifold rewards. Donating food and clothing and serving the needy on this day bestows special blessings from Lord Vishnu.

While mentioning Satvik charity in Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta it is said—

Daatvyamiti Yaddanam Diyateinupkarine.
The country is black, and its characters are full of memories.

That is, the charity that is given without any selfishness, at the right time, and to a deserving person is called Satvik charity.

Amalaki Ekadashi is not only a festival of fasting and worship, but it also gives the message of balance of nature, body and soul. Worship of the Amla tree teaches us the feeling of conservation and gratitude towards nature. On this auspicious date, by obtaining the blessings of Lord Vishnu through fasting, worship and charity, life can move towards happiness, prosperity and salvation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When is Amalaki Ekadashi 2026?
A: In 2026, Amalaki Ekadashi will be celebrated on February 27.

Q: Which god is Amalaki Ekadashi dedicated to?
A: Amalaki Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Q: Who should be worshipped on Amalaki Ekadashi?
A: On Amalaki Ekadashi, one should worship the Amla tree and Lord Vishnu under the Amla tree.