Indira Ekadashi is a one of the most significant fasting days for sanatans (HIndu) that comes on the ekadashi of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of ‘Ashwin’. This comes in the month of September to October according to the Gregorian calendar. Since Indira Ekadashi falls in Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to ancestors, it is also known as ‘Ekadashi Shradh’. The main motive of this ekadashi vrat is to offer salvation to one's forefathers or dead ancestors so that they do not have to pass through hell. Hindus take the Indira Ekadashi fast to seek forgiveness for their wrong deeds of the past. Indira Ekadashi fast is taken by staunch followers of Lord Vishnu who seek his love and blessings.

When is Indira Ekadashi in 2024?

Important Timings On Indira Ekadashi 2024

Indira Ekadashi: Saturday, September, 28 2024 To On 29th October
Paran (breaking of fast) time - From 06:19 am 08:39 am
Dwadashi ends on the day of Paran Tithi - 04:37 p.m.
Ekadashi Tithi Start - October 27, 2024 at 01:21 pm
Ekadashi date ends - October 27, 2024 at 02:58 pm

Rituals of Indira Ekadashi 2024

On this Ekadashi, the followers of this vrat performs the rites of Shradh. The devotees must celebrate the vrat by following the complete rituals to get maximum blessings. On this day an idol of Lord Vishnu is worshipped with gaiety and devotion. The devotees offer Tulsi leaves, flowers, and fruits along with other puja essentials to the idol of the lord. One should also visit any Lord Vishnu temple on this ekadashi.

The vrat of this Ekadashi begins a day before, that is, on ‘dashami’ (10th day). On dashami the rituals for dead ancestors are performed and prayer is offered to them. The food is taken before sunrise only as on Ekadashi day, the devotees take a strict fast. The vrat starts at sunrise and continues till the next day, ‘dwadashi’ after worshipping Lord Vishnu. As it comes in the Pitru Paksha day, food is offered to priests and cows, before eating.

On the  Ekadashi the followers wake up early before sunrise. This day is devoted to Lord Vishnu and Vedic mantras and bhajans are chanted in praise of the Lord. The followers of this vrat should remain awake all night and recite devotional songs and listen to the stories of Lord Vishnu. Reciting ‘Vishnu Sahastranaam’ is also believed to be fortunate.

On this ekadashi, special rituals are performed and prayers are offered to the dead ancestors. The afternoon time is considered to be preferable for offering prayers to the forefathers.