Jaya Ekadashi is an important fasting day in Hinduism, observed on the 11th day of the lunar month. In 2025, it falls on Saturday, February 8, and is considered highly auspicious for devotees of Lord Vishnu. This sacred day is marked by fasting, prayers, and devotion, with the belief that it brings prosperity, health, and spiritual growth.

Jaya Ekadashi is believed to bestow Lord Vishnu’s blessings, leading to spiritual elevation and peace. Observing this fast is seen as a way to purify the heart and cleanse the soul. Devotees believe that fasting on this day can help them achieve spiritual liberation and fulfill their desires.

Parana: Breaking the fast

The fast is broken through Parana, which must be done after sunrise on the following day, within the Dwadashi Tithi. However, Parana should not be performed during Hari Vasara, the first quarter of Dwadashi. The ideal time to break the fast is early morning (Pratahkal), but if that is not possible, it can be done after Madhyahna (midday).

Some devotees, especially sanyasis, widows, or those seeking Moksha (liberation), observe Ekadashi fasting for two consecutive days. Regular devotees typically observe the fast on the first day, while those following specific spiritual practices may continue their fast on the second day.

Jaya ekadashi 2025: puja vidhi (rituals)

To properly observe Jaya Ekadashi, devotees follow a set of rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu:

Fasting (Upavas)

1. Begin fasting a day before, on February 7, 2025, by avoiding grains and consuming sattvic foods like fruits, dairy, and vegetables.

2. Stay awake at night (if possible) and meditate on Lord Vishnu’s name.

3. Continue the fast until Parana on February 9, 2025.

Early Morning Rituals (Morning Abhishek)

1. Wake up before sunrise and take a purifying bath.

2. Wear clean clothes and sit in a quiet space facing north or east.

3. Light a ghee lamp and incense to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Offerings to Lord Vishnu

1. Place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu on an altar and decorate it with flowers.

2. Offer fresh fruits, tulsi leaves, and sweets as prasad.

3. Chant the "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" mantra 108 times or more.

Vrat Katha

1. Recite or listen to the Ekadashi Katha to understand the spiritual significance of fasting.

2. The Vrat Katha highlights Lord Vishnu’s blessings upon those who observe Ekadashi.

Sandhya Aarti

1. Perform an evening aarti by lighting a lamp and singing prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

2. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or other devotional hymns.

Parana

1. Break the fast on February 9, 2025, within the Parana time of 07:05 AM to 09:17 AM.

2. Avoid breaking the fast during Hari Vasara.

3. Begin by offering water to Lord Vishnu before consuming a light sattvic meal, such as fruits or khichdi.

Charity (Daan)

1. It is considered auspicious to donate food, clothes, or money to the needy.

2. Offer donations to Brahmins or temples to receive divine blessings.

Prayers for Blessings

1. After Parana, pray for health, happiness, and prosperity.

2. Seek Lord Vishnu’s grace for spiritual growth and well-being.

Jaya Ekadashi is a day of devotion and discipline, offering an opportunity to connect with the divine and enhance one’s spiritual journey. Whether fasting for personal growth or seeking liberation, observing Ekadashi with sincerity and proper rituals brings immense blessings from Lord Vishnu.