Shattila Ekadashi 2026: Date, Significance, and Rituals
Understanding Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Date: This festival marks the first Ekadashi of the Magha month, occurring on the Ekadashi tithi (lunar day) during the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight). Devotees honor Lord Vishnu on this day by offering sesame seeds, which hold special importance during the fast, hence the name Shattila Ekadashi. Observing this fast is believed to bring joy, prosperity, and spiritual merit while alleviating sins and suffering. Let’s explore the Panchang (Hindu calendar) to determine the date, auspicious timings (muhurat), and parana (fast-breaking) time for Shattila Ekadashi.
Date of Shattila Ekadashi
Date of the First Ekadashi of Magha:
According to the Panchang, the Magha Krishna Ekadashi tithi will commence on Tuesday, January 13th, at 3:17 PM and will continue until 5:52 PM on Wednesday, January 14th. Therefore, the fast for Shattila Ekadashi will be observed on January 14th, marking the first Ekadashi of the new year 2026.
Auspicious Timing for Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi Muhurat:
The Brahma Muhurat on this day is from 05:27 AM to 06:21 AM. After completing morning rituals, devotees should take a vow for the Shattila Ekadashi fast and Vishnu Puja. Worship of Lord Vishnu can be performed between 07:15 AM and 09:53 AM. Note that there is no Abhijit Muhurat on this day, and Rahu Kaal will occur from 12:30 PM to 01:49 PM.
Auspicious Yogas on Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi in 3 Auspicious Yogas:
On Shattila Ekadashi, three beneficial yogas—Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga, Amrit Siddhi Yoga, and Vriddhi Yoga—will be present in the evening. Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga and Amrit Siddhi Yoga will last from 7:15 AM until 3:03 AM on January 15th, making this an ideal time for Ekadashi puja. Additionally, Gandha Yoga will be effective until 7:56 PM, followed by Vriddhi Yoga. Anuradha Nakshatra will be in effect during the morning of Ekadashi until 3:03 AM on January 15th, after which Jyeshtha Nakshatra will take over.
Breaking the Fast
Shattila Ekadashi Parana Time:
Those observing the fast on January 14th can break their fast on Thursday, January 15th, between 7:15 AM and 9:21 AM. Dwadashi will conclude at 8:16 PM on this day.
Importance of Shattila Ekadashi
Significance of Shattila Ekadashi Fast:
Observing the Shattila Ekadashi fast and performing the associated puja is believed to cleanse one of sins. Furthermore, donating sesame seeds on this day is said to liberate individuals from poverty, inviting happiness and prosperity into their lives. Bathing in the Sangam at Prayagraj on this day is also thought to bring blessings from Lord Vishnu. Donations made on Shattila Ekadashi are believed to lead to heavenly rewards after death.