Ekadashi Vrat
Ekadashi Vrat is observed on Ekadashi tithi of every month (occurring twice every Western calendar month). During a normal Hindu calendar year, there are 24 Ekadashi Vrats, however in a year with Adhik (Purshottam) maas there are 26 Ekadashi Vrats. This Vrat is equal to or greater than the donation (daan) of gold, land, food, Gau Mata (cows), Kanya Daan, and even the completion of pilgrimage according to scriptures.
Ekadashi Vrat should be followed in accordance with scriptures, as follows:
Do not pick tulsi leaves on this day
If possible, offer food to Gau Mata (cows) and Brahmans (priests)
Chant “Om Namoh Bhagwate Vasudevaye” throughout the day
Avoid conflict and negative emotions - remain in a calm state of mind
Avoid consumption of grains - consume fruits, vegetables and root crops instead
If possible, consume mangoes, grapes, bananas, almonds and pistachio as they are considered amrit foods
Tulsi should be offered to Shri Vishnu or any of his Avtars
Add tulsi leaves to food prior to eating
The following dates indicate Ekadashi Vrat dates for 2024:
Safla Ekadashi - Sunday, January 7th
Putrada Ekadashi - Sunday, January 21st
Shatshila Ekadashi - Tuesday, February 6th
Jaya Ekadashi - Tuesday, February 20th
Vijaya Ekadashi - Thursday, March 7th
Amalaki Ekadashi - Wednesday, March 20th
Paapmochni Ekadashi - Friday, April 5th
Kamada Ekadashi - Friday, April 19th
Varuthini Ekadashi - Saturday, May 4th
Mohini Ekadashi - Sunday, May 19th
Achala Ekadashi - Monday, June 3rd
Nirjala Ekadashi - Tuesday, June 18th
Yogini Ekadashi - Tuesday, July 2nd
Harishayani Ekadashi - Wednesday, July 17th
Kamada Ekadashi - Wednesday, July 31st
Putrada Ekadashi - Friday, August 16th
Aja Ekadashi - Thursday, August 29th
Padma Jaljhulni Ekadashi - Saturday, September 14th
Indra Ekadashi - Saturday, September 28th
Paapkusha Ekadashi - Monday, October 14th
Rama/Tulsi Ekadashi - Monday, October 28th
Devutthana Ekadashi - Tuesday, November 12th
Utpana Ekadashi - Wednesday, November 27th
Moksha Ekadashi - Wednesday, December 11th
Safla Ekadashi - Thursday, December 26th