Padmini
Ekadashi

Padmini Ekadashi 2026

Not every Ekadashi comes every year in the usual way. Padmini Ekadashi is different because it is observed only during Adhik Maas—the extra lunar month added to the Hindu calendar from time to time (approx every 3 years). This month is also known as Malmas and Purushottam Maas.

The Ekadashi that falls in the Shukla Paksha of this sacred month is known as Padmini Ekadashi. Because Adhik Maas itself is not annual, the date of Padmini Ekadashi vrat is also not tied to one fixed lunar month.

In many Panchang listings, devotees may also find it mentioned as Adhika Maas Ekadashi or Vamana or Parivartini Ekadashi. During this period, devotees worship Lord Vishnu and observe Padmini Ekadashi fasting with special devotion during Purushottam Maas.

How Padmini Ekadashi Puja Is Usually Observed

• Most devotees begin Padmini Ekadashi vrat early in the day itself. After bathing and getting ready in clean clothes, the fast is formally observed with a prayerful resolve dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
• Before starting the puja, the worship space is cleaned properly. Many people sprinkle Ganga jal around the area and place an image or idol of Vishnu for the prayers.
• A ghee lamp (diya) is then lit, followed by simple offerings like flowers, water, and Tulsi leaves, which hold special importance in Vishnu worship.
• During the day, devotees often chant Vishnu mantras or read the Vishnu Sahasranama, as these are widely considered beneficial during Ekadashi fasting.
• The observance usually concludes with evening aarti, while the fast itself is broken the following day on Dwadashi according to traditional Padmini Ekadashi puja vidhi.
• Charity is another important ritual of the day. On the auspicious day of Padmini Ekadashi, one must donate food and clothes to Brahmins.

Padmini Ekadashi Fasting Rules

Preparation for Padmini Ekadashi vrat usually begins from Dashami itself. Devotees avoid onion and garlic a day before the fast and keep their meals simple before starting the Ekadashi observance.

Foods Allowed During Padmini Ekadashi Fast

Those observing partial fasting can consume sattvic foods such as:

• sabudana
• potatoes
• sweet potatoes
• fruits
• dry fruits and nuts

These foods are commonly eaten during Ekadashi fasting because they are considered light and perfect for vrat.

Foods to Avoid on Ekadashi

The following items are traditionally avoided during Padmini Ekadashi fasting:

1. grains
2. rice
3. pulses and legumes
4. onion and garlic

According to traditional beliefs, grains and pulses are avoided on Ekadashi tithi, while onion and garlic are restricted because they are associated with tamasic qualities such as laziness, anger, negative thinking, and excessive cravings.

For this reason, devotees try to keep both their diet and mindset sattvic while observing the fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu.