Ekadashi: How many times does Ekadashi occur in a year? Learn the key facts here.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Ekadashi is considered one of the most sacred dates in Hinduism. This date is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and fasting on this day holds special significance. It is said that devotees who observe this fast attain happiness and peace. Let us find out how many Ekadashis occur  in a year and what is their significance?

Number of Ekadashi

According to the Hindu calendar, there are two Ekadashis in each month, one during the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) and the other during the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight). There are a total of 24 Ekadashis in a year.

Important Ekadashi dates

• Nirjala Ekadashi – It falls in the Shukla Paksha of the month of Jyeshtha and is considered to be the most difficult and important Ekadashi of the year, in which a fast is observed without drinking water.
• Devshayani Ekadashi – This Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha of Ashadha month is the day when Lord Vishnu goes into Yognidra for four months.
• Devuthani Ekadashi - This Ekadashi of Kartik Shukla Paksha symbolizes the awakening of Lord Vishnu from Yognidra and with this, auspicious works begin.
• Mokshada Ekadashi - Ekadashi of Margashirsha Shukla Paksha is considered auspicious for attaining salvation.

Significance of Ekadashi fasting

Observing the Ekadashi fast brings physical and mental purification. The scriptures state that observing this fast destroys all sins and grants one the attainment of Vaikuntha. According to religious beliefs, devotees observe a fast on this day and worship Lord Vishnu, recite stories, and sing hymns.

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