In Hinduism, the Ekadashi tithi (lunar day) is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Vishnu; however, the significance of Kamika Ekadashi, which falls during the month of Sawan, is even greater. According to religious beliefs, observing a fast, performing rituals, chanting mantras, and engaging in acts of charity for Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this day brings happiness, prosperity, abundance, and good fortune into one's life. It is believed that by observing the Kamika Ekadashi fast, Lord Vishnu fulfills the wishes of devotees and grants them liberation from sins. Several auspicious alignments are coinciding on Kamika Ekadashi this year. Let us learn about the date, the significance of the fast, and the do's and don'ts from Ujjain-based astrologer Anand Bhardwaj.

According to the Vedic calendar, the Ekadashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Sawan will begin at 1:59 AM on August 8, 2026. This tithi will conclude at 11:04 AM on August 9, 2026. In Hinduism, the *Udayatithi* (the tithi prevailing at sunrise) holds special importance in determining the date of a fast. Since the Ekadashi tithi will be present at sunrise on August 9, the Kamika Ekadashi fast will be observed on Sunday, August 9, 2026.

**Benefits of the Kamika Ekadashi Fast**
It is a religious belief that observing the fast, performing worship, and remembering the name of Shri Hari (Lord Vishnu) with devotion and proper rituals on this day destroys many sins accumulated in life. According to the scriptures, this fast is considered capable of liberating one from the consequences of grave sins. Through the grace of Lord Vishnu, the path to happiness, prosperity, mental peace, and ultimately *Moksha* (salvation) is paved.

**What to do on the day of the Ekadashi fast?**
On the day of Ekadashi, one should wake up during *Brahma Muhurta* (the auspicious pre-dawn period), bathe, and take a solemn vow (*Sankalp*) to observe the fast with devotion. Thereafter, worship Lord Vishnu according to prescribed rituals and offer yellow flowers, yellow garments, and yellow sweets (*Bhog*), as the color yellow is considered extremely dear to Shri Hari. One must also worship Goddess Lakshmi. It is a religious belief that offering water to a Peepal tree and circumambulating it on this day invokes the special blessings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Do keep these points in mind:
1. One should not consume grains on the day of the Ekadashi fast.
2. Even those who are not observing the Ekadashi fast should refrain from consuming rice.
3. Do not make the mistake of cutting your hair or nails on the day of the Ekadashi fast.
4. One should certainly make a donation to Brahmins on the day of the Ekadashi fast.
5. Donating grains after breaking the Ekadashi fast is considered auspicious.

PC Social Media