According to the Hindu calendar, the Papankusha Ekadashi fast is observed on the *Ekadashi* (eleventh day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of *Ashwin*. There is a tradition of worshipping the *Padmanabha* form of Lord Vishnu on this day. Religious beliefs hold that observing the Papankusha Ekadashi fast and worshipping Lord Vishnu with proper rituals paves the way for liberation from sinful deeds and the attainment of *Moksha* (salvation). On this Ekadashi, the Tulsi plant holds special significance alongside the worship of Lord Vishnu. In religious tradition, Tulsi is considered dear to Lord Vishnu; hence, it is considered auspicious to worship the Tulsi plant and offer Tulsi leaves during the worship of Lord Vishnu on this day.

When is Papankusha Ekadashi?

According to *Drik Panchang*, the Papankusha Ekadashi fast in 2026 will be observed on Thursday, October 22. The *Ekadashi Tithi* (lunar day) will begin at 2:11 PM on October 21, 2026, and conclude at 2:47 PM on October 22. Based on *Udaya Tithi* (the sunrise rule), the fast will be observed on October 22. The fast can be broken (*Parana*) the following day, October 23, 2026, between 6:27 AM and 8:42 AM.

Why is Tulsi significant on Papankusha Ekadashi?

According to religious beliefs, Tulsi is associated with Lord Vishnu. The tradition of offering Tulsi leaves during the worship of Lord Vishnu has existed since ancient times. For this reason, offering Tulsi to Lord Vishnu on Papankusha Ekadashi is considered auspicious. It is believed that offering Tulsi to Lord Vishnu enhances the spiritual significance of the worship. On this day, devotees worship the Tulsi plant and pray to Lord Vishnu for happiness, peace, and prosperity for their families. Light a Ghee Lamp Near the Tulsi Plant

There is a tradition of lighting a ghee lamp near the Tulsi plant on the evening of Papankusha Ekadashi. According to religious belief, lighting the lamp, bowing to the Tulsi plant, and remembering Lord Vishnu fosters a positive atmosphere in the home. Afterward, one can pray for the happiness and peace of the family.

Offer Tulsi Leaves to Lord Vishnu

Tulsi leaves are offered to Lord Vishnu while worshipping Him on the day of Ekadashi. Offering Tulsi leaves—along with flowers, incense, lamps, and *naivedya* (food offerings)—is a key religious tradition of Vishnu worship.

Worship the Tulsi Plant

One can worship the Tulsi plant in the morning after completing daily ablutions. Light a lamp before the Tulsi plant, meditate on Lord Vishnu, and pray for the family's happiness and prosperity. According to religious belief, worshipping Tulsi on the day of Ekadashi is considered especially meritorious.

What is the Religious Significance of Papankusha Ekadashi?

Religious texts and traditions attribute special significance to Papankusha Ekadashi. It is believed that observing a fast, worshipping Lord Vishnu, and engaging in religious activities on this day helps a person attain liberation from their sinful deeds. It is for this reason that it is called 'Papankusha' Ekadashi. Through worship and fasting on this day, devotees seek to earn spiritual merit and attain *Moksha* (salvation). However, these are matters of religious belief, and their outcomes should be viewed within the context of faith and tradition.

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