In Sanatan Dharma, all Ekadashi dates throughout the year are considered to be of special significance, but when it comes to Purushottam Ekadashi, its spiritual impact is even greater. This auspicious Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and, due to its occurrence in the Adhik Maas (extra monthly period), is considered extremely rare and fruitful.
It is also known as Padmini Ekadashi or Parama Ekadashi. It is believed that observing this fast with devotion and regularly liberates one from all sins and paves the way for happiness, peace, and salvation in life.
In 2026, Purushottam Ekadashi will be celebrated during the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of Adhik Maas. According to the calendar, Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 5:10 am on May 26, 2026, and end at 6:21 am on May 27, 2026. Based on the Udaya Tithi, this fast will be observed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Adhik Maas is called Purushottam Maas because it is dedicated to the ‘Purushottam’ form of Lord Vishnu. For this reason, the Ekadashi falling in this month is called Purushottam Ekadashi. It is also called Padmini Ekadashi because it is believed to bring purity, good fortune, and spiritual light like a lotus in the lives of devotees.
According to mythology, observing this fast liberates a person from all suffering and ultimately leads to the attainment of Vishnu Loka. This Ekadashi is considered the best among all Ekadashis.
The time of Purushottam Ekadashi is a divine opportunity for self-purification and devotion to God. On this day, special attention is paid to the purity of mind, words, and actions. It is said in the scriptures that the sins of many births are destroyed by remembering Lord Vishnu with a true heart on this day.
This fast of Purushottam Ekadashi infuses positive energy, self-control, and a spirit of service within the individual. Especially during the Adhik Maas, chanting, penance, charity, and devotion are considered to bestow eternal virtue.
In Sanatan culture, charity is considered the best part of religion. Donation on Purushottam Ekadashi, in particular, is considered highly virtuous. Religious texts state that helping the needy on this day pleases Lord Vishnu and blesses the devotee with happiness and prosperity.
Charity is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. The Padma Purana, while referring to charity, states:
Japa, charity, and austerity performed at a pilgrimage site, river bank, or temple bestow eternal virtue.
On this auspicious occasion, donating the following items, as per your faith, is considered extremely auspicious:
It is believed that selfless donations are very dear to Lord Hari and bestow virtue, happiness, and mental peace in life. On this Purushottam Ekadashi, support the Narayan Seva Sansthan’s service project of feeding poor, helpless, and disabled children and receive Lord Vishnu’s blessings.
Purushottam Ekadashi is a rare and divine opportunity to receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu. This day conveys the message of self-reflection, service, charity, and devotion. Devotees who fast, worship, and donate with devotion on this day are blessed with positivity, spiritual progress, and divine grace.
On this auspicious occasion, remember Lord Hari, help the needy, and resolve to move forward on the path of righteousness and humanity.
Question: When is Purushottam Ekadashi 2026?
Answer: Purushottam Ekadashi will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 27, in 2026.
Question: Once in how many years does Purushottam Ekadashi occur?
Answer: This Ekadashi occurs only in the extra month, which occurs once every three years.
Question: What donations are considered auspicious on Purushottam Ekadashi?
Answer: Donating food, grains, water, and helping the needy on this day is considered extremely virtuous.