Mohini Ekadashi 2026: Significance and Rituals Explained
Mohini Ekadashi 2026 Observance
Mohini Ekadashi 2026 Today: The observance of Mohini Ekadashi is taking place today, which is celebrated annually on the Ekadashi Tithi (the eleventh day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing moon phase) in the month of *Vaishakh*. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day can eliminate sins and bring joy and prosperity into their lives. According to mythology, Lord Vishnu took on the form of 'Mohini' during the *Samudra Manthan* (Churning of the Ocean), which is why this Ekadashi is named Mohini Ekadashi. Fasting on this day is thought to help individuals achieve *Moksha* (salvation) and attain mental tranquility. Today, several auspicious *Yogas* (planetary alignments) such as *Dhruva Yoga* and *Malavya Rajyoga* are present, enhancing the spiritual importance of this day. Let's delve into the significance of the Mohini Ekadashi fast.
Understanding the Importance of Mohini Ekadashi
**The Significance of Mohini Ekadashi**
Religious texts highlight that this fast is incredibly rewarding. It is believed that anyone who observes this fast with genuine devotion and meditates on Lord Vishnu will find relief from their challenges. This fast is especially beneficial for those facing hardships or negativity in their lives. Observing it promotes spiritual cleansing and fills one with positive energy. According to scriptures, on this day, Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini to allow the *Devas* (gods) to enjoy the *Amrit* (nectar of immortality) during the ocean's churning, making this day significant as Mohini Ekadashi.
Key Dates for Mohini Ekadashi 2026
**Mohini Ekadashi 2026: Today**
**Start of Ekadashi Tithi:** From 6:06 PM on April 26.
**End of Ekadashi Tithi:** Until 6:15 PM on April 27.
According to the *Udayatithi* (the Tithi at sunrise), the Mohini Ekadashi fast will be observed throughout the day on Monday, April 27.
Breaking the Fast and Auspicious Timings
**Mohini Ekadashi *Parana* (Breaking of the Fast):** On Monday, April 28, between 05:43 AM and 08:21 AM. Here are the auspicious timings for Mohini Ekadashi Puja:
Brahma Muhurat: 04:17 AM to 05:01 AM
Abhijit Muhurat: 11:53 AM to 12:45 PM
Vijaya Muhurat: 02:31 PM to 03:23 PM
Amrit Kaal: 02:41 PM to 04:20 PM
Shubh Choghadiya: 09:02 AM to 10:40 AM
Mantras for Lord Vishnu
Mantras of Lord Vishnu
Om Vishnave Namah
Om Narayanaya Namah
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Om Shri Vishnave Cha Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dhimahi Tanno Vishnu Prachodayat
Chant these mantras 108 times using a Tulsi (Holy Basil) rosary.
Rituals for Mohini Ekadashi Worship
Mohini Ekadashi Worship Method
On Mohini Ekadashi, rise early, take a bath, and wear clean attire. Set up an idol or image of Lord Vishnu in your worship area. Offer yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, fruits, and sweets to the deity. Light incense and a lamp (Diya), perform the worship rituals, and recite the *Vishnu Sahasranama* or the *Ekadashi Vrat Katha* (fasting legend). While fasting, meditate on the Lord and chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya." Devotees may choose to consume only fruits (*Phalahar*) or observe a waterless fast (*Nirjala*), depending on their faith and physical ability. The fast concludes on the following day during the *Dwadashi* Tithi, following prescribed rituals.
Legend of Mohini Ekadashi
Mohini Ekadashi Fasting Legend
According to the legend of Mohini Ekadashi, the city of Bhadravati was ruled by King Dyutiman, located by the River Saraswati. A righteous merchant named Dhanpal lived there with his five sons. He was known for his piety, having planted many trees and built rest houses (*Dharmshalas*) and food centers (*Bhojanalayas*) for the public. A devoted worshipper of Lord Vishnu, he regularly observed fasts and prayed to Lord Hari. However, his youngest son, Dhrishtabuddhi, engaged in sinful behavior, dishonoring his father and ancestors. Consuming meat and alcohol, he squandered wealth on immoral pursuits, causing Dhanpal great distress. Eventually, Dhanpal expelled him from their home. Dhrishtabuddhi sold his jewelry to survive for a few days but soon turned to theft.
Transformation and Redemption
One day, while attempting to rob, he was caught and imprisoned. After serving his sentence, the King banished him from the kingdom. Wandering in search of food and water, he eventually reached the hermitage of Sage Kaudinya. At that moment, Sage Kaudinya returned from a holy dip in the Ganges, and a few drops of water fell on Dhrishtabuddhi, clearing his mind. He bowed to the sage and confessed his sins, seeking redemption.
Sage Kaudinya informed him that the *Ekadashi* of the bright fortnight in *Vaishakh* is known as *Mohini Ekadashi*. He advised Dhrishtabuddhi to observe a fast and worship Lord Vishnu with devotion, assuring him that through Lord Vishnu's grace, all his sins would be forgiven, leading to his salvation. When the day of the *Mohini Ekadashi* fast arrived, Dhrishtabuddhi followed the rituals diligently...