Significance of May Ekadashi 2026: Rituals and Observances
May Ekadashi, also known as Apra Ekadashi, is a significant day for devotees, believed to enhance wealth and provide liberation from sins. This year, it falls on the 13th of May, with specific rituals to be observed. From early morning prayers to offerings to Lord Vishnu, the day is filled with spiritual activities. Learn about the importance of this day, the rituals involved, and how to observe it properly to gain its full benefits.
| May 5, 2026, 12:09 IST
Understanding May Ekadashi
May Ekadashi, also referred to as Apra Ekadashi, is believed to hold immense spiritual significance. Observing this day is said to enhance wealth and respect, while also liberating individuals from their sins. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu using items like Tulsi, sandalwood, camphor, and Ganga water. It is believed that keeping this fast can free a person from the cycle of birth and death. Let's find out when this Ekadashi falls in May.
Date of May Ekadashi
This year's May Ekadashi will be celebrated on the 13th. The time for breaking the fast, known as Parana, will be from 5:31 AM to 8:14 AM. The end of the Dwadashi Tithi on the day of Parana will occur at 11:20 AM.
Rituals for Apra Ekadashi
- On Apra Ekadashi, wake up early and thoroughly clean your home, followed by a bath and wearing clean clothes.
- Light a ghee lamp in front of the idol of Lord Vishnu in your home temple.
- Offer rice, flowers, mangoes, coconuts, and dried fruits to the deity.
- Listen to the Ekadashi Katha and perform the Aarti for the Lord.
- Offer water to the Sun God.
- In the evening, light a lamp near the Tulsi plant.
- Finally, break your fast the next day.
Activities to Perform on Apra Ekadashi
- Chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' throughout the day.
- Devote yourself sincerely to the worship of Lord Vishnu.
- Make sure to give to charity.
- Offer Arghya to the Sun God.
- Perform worship of Tulsi Ji.
- Feed the needy.
- Consume only fruit-based meals.
- Also, worship Goddess Lakshmi alongside Lord Vishnu.