Ekadashi date in March 2026: When is Papamochani Ekadashi? Check vrat katha, timings and fasting rules

The sacred period between Holika Dahan and Chaitra Navratri marks an important spiritual milestone in the Hindu calendar — Papamochani Ekadashi. Considered the last Ekadashi of the Vedic year, the day is observed by devotees seeking to cleanse past sins before the arrival of the New Year, Ugadi.

According to Drik Panchang, Papamochani Ekadashi in 2026 will be observed on Sunday, March 15. The fast is observed on the same day across India, whether devotees follow the purnimanta calendar in North India or the amanta calendar in the South.

Papamochani Ekadashi 2026: Date and muhurat

Observing the correct time for parana (breaking the fast) is considered essential, as breaking it outside the designated window is traditionally viewed as a spiritual lapse.

As per Drik Panchang:

• Papamochani Ekadashi: March 15, 2026 (Sunday)

• Parana time (March 16): 06:30 am – 08:54 am

• Dwadashi end moment: 09:40 am

• Ekadashi tithi begins: 08:10 am on March 14, 2026

• Ekadashi tithi ends: 09:16 am on March 15, 2026

Devotees are advised to avoid breaking the fast during Hari Vasara (the first quarter of the Dwadashi tithi) or during madhyahna (midday). The preferred time for parana is pratahkal, or early morning.

Significance of Papamochani Ekadashi vrat

The word Papamochani literally means “remover of sins.” According to Hindu scriptures, observing this fast with devotion can absolve even severe sins, including those comparable to Brahmahatya (killing a Brahmin).

While many observe a one-day fast, devout followers seeking moksha (liberation) may keep a two-day fast if the Ekadashi tithi spans across sunrise. Devotees typically worship Lord Vishnu on this day and pray for spiritual purification.

Papamochani Ekadashi vrat katha

The legend associated with Papamochani Ekadashi was narrated by Lord Krishna to Arjuna.

It tells the story of Medhavi Rishi, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva who meditated in the Chaitraratha forest. His beauty and spiritual aura attracted the apsara Manjughosha, who, influenced by Kamadeva, enchanted him with music and charm.

Ensnared by desire, the sage abandoned his penance and remained with her for 57 years, believing only one night had passed. When he realised the loss of his spiritual merit, he angrily cursed Manjughosha to become a Pishachini (a flesh-eating spirit).

Seeking forgiveness, the apsara begged for mercy. The sage then advised her to observe the Papamochani Ekadashi fast to regain her original form. Later, on the guidance of his father, sage Chyavan, Medhavi also observed the fast.

Their devotion helped cleanse the sage’s sins, and Manjughosha was freed from her curse, regaining her celestial beauty and returning to heaven.

How to observe the Papamochani Ekadashi fast

• Sankalpa: Take a vow in the morning to remain truthful and disciplined.

• Worship: Offer yellow flowers, sandalwood and incense to Lord Vishnu.

• Diet: Some devotees keep a nirjala fast (without food or water), while others consume fruits and milk.

• Charity: Donating to the needy on the day of parana is considered highly auspicious.