Apara Ekadashi: Observing the Fast and Breaking Rituals

Apara Ekadashi, observed on May 13th, is a significant day for fasting in Hindu tradition. This article explores the importance of the fast, the correct way to break it, and the auspicious timings for the *Parana*. By following the prescribed rituals and chanting specific mantras, devotees can seek blessings from Lord Vishnu and alleviate their troubles. Discover the essential steps and timings to ensure a fulfilling observance of this sacred day.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 13, 2026, 12:29 IST

Apara Ekadashi Observance

On May 13th, devotees will observe the *Apara Ekadashi* fast. Engaging in this fast with sincere faith, ethical behavior, and strict adherence to the guidelines can help alleviate various financial and mental challenges. It is essential to perform the *Parana*, or the ritual of breaking the fast, correctly to ensure continued blessings from Lord Vishnu. Let’s delve into the auspicious timings and the proper procedure for the *Parana* of Apara Ekadashi.

**Auspicious Timing for Apara Ekadashi Parana**
The Ekadashi Tithi of the *Krishna Paksha* in the month of *Jyeshtha* commences on May 12th at 2:52 PM and concludes on May 13th at 1:29 PM. Therefore, the *Parana* timing is as follows:

**Parana (Fast-Breaking) Time:** From 5:31 AM to 8:14 AM (on May 14th)
**Dwadashi Tithi Conclusion Time (on the day of Parana):** 11:20 AM
Ekadashi 2026

**Steps to Perform the Parana**
Begin your day early with a ritual bath and dress in clean attire. Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu or *Ladoo Gopal Ji*. Prepare a *Bhog* (sacred food offering) that includes *Makhan-Mishri* (butter and rock sugar), *Panjiri*, and place a *Tulsi* leaf (holy basil) within it. Eating a *Tulsi* leaf during the *Parana* is considered very auspicious, and you may consume the leaf offered to the deity. On the day of the *Parana*, it is customary to feed a Brahmin or someone in need, or to donate dry grains (like flour, rice, lentils), fruits, or *Dakshina* (monetary offering).

**Mantras to Chant**
While performing the *Parana* of the Ekadashi fast, recite the following mantras to seek the blessings of Lord Shri Hari and Goddess Lakshmi: 1. 'Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya
2. Om Vishnave Namah
3. Shriman Narayan Narayan Hari Hari
4. Lord Vishnu Gayatri Mantra - Om Narayanaya Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dhimahi Tanno Vishnu: Prachodayat:

Important Considerations
The Ekadashi fast concludes the following day on Dwadashi Tithi after sunrise, known as 'Paran'. Always break the fast during the auspicious time on Dwadashi. Avoid breaking the fast during Hari Vasar (the first quarter of Dwadashi Tithi). The use of rice during the *Parana* is deemed auspicious.

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