Kamika Ekadashi is a sacred Ekadashi observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Celebrated during Krishna Paksha of the holy month of Shravan, this auspicious day inspires devotees to practise fasting, prayer, self-discipline and spiritual reflection. It is believed that observing Kamika Ekadashi with sincere devotion helps purify the mind, seek forgiveness for past mistakes and receive the grace of Lord Vishnu.
In 2026, Kamika Ekadashi will be observed on Sunday, August 9. Whether one keeps a complete fast or follows a simple fruit-based vrat, its true essence lies in devotion, compassion and control over thoughts and actions.
Kamika Ekadashi 2026: Date and Timings
Ekadashi date: Sunday, August 9, 2026
Ekadashi Tithi begins: 1:59 PM on August 8, 2026
Ekadashi Tithi ends: 11:04 AM on August 9, 2026
Parana date: Monday, August 10, 2026
Parana time: 5:47 AM to 8:00 AM
These timings are calculated for New Delhi. As sunrise and tithi timings may vary by location, devotees should consult their local Panchang before observing the vrat or performing Parana.
What Is Kamika Ekadashi?
Kamika Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh lunar day of the waning phase of the moon in Shravan. The day is devoted to Lord Vishnu in forms such as Shri Hari, Madhava, Narayana and Krishna. Devotees offer Tulsi leaves, chant sacred mantras and listen to the Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
According to traditional belief, this Ekadashi is associated with purification, repentance and freedom from negative tendencies. It reminds devotees that sincere prayer, truthful conduct and a compassionate heart are more important than elaborate offerings.
Significance of Kamika Ekadashi
Shravan is considered an ideal month for prayer and spiritual discipline. Kamika Ekadashi offers devotees an opportunity to turn inward and strengthen their relationship with the divine.
Tulsi has special importance on this day. Offering clean Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu is considered highly auspicious. Devotees may also light a ghee lamp, recite the Vishnu Sahasranama and chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.”
The vrat is not only about avoiding food. It also encourages control over anger, greed, harsh speech and harmful behaviour. Charity, kindness and service are meaningful ways to honour Lord Vishnu.
Puja Samagri Required
Before beginning the puja, keep the following items ready:
A Lord Vishnu or Krishna idol or image, a clean chowki, yellow cloth, kalash, water, roli, sandalwood paste, akshat, yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, seasonal fruits, panchamrit, incense sticks, a ghee diya, cotton wicks, sweets and a puja thali.
Use fresh and clean puja items and arrange the worship space peacefully before beginning the rituals.
Kamika Ekadashi Puja Vidhi
Wake up early, take a bath and clean the puja area. Place the idol or image of Lord Vishnu on a chowki covered with a clean yellow cloth.
Light a ghee diya and incense, and then take a sankalp to observe the vrat with sincerity. Offer water, sandalwood paste, roli, akshat, flowers, fruits and Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu.
Recite Vishnu mantras, the Vishnu Sahasranama or the name of Shri Hari. Read or listen to the Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Katha, perform Lord Vishnu’s aarti and offer bhog. Distribute the offering among family members as prasad.
Throughout the day, remain peaceful, avoid arguments and spend time in prayer, meditation or charitable service. Some devotees also sing bhajans and remain awake at night in remembrance of Lord Vishnu.
Fasting Rules for Kamika Ekadashi
Devotees may choose a vrat according to their health, age and capacity. Some observe Nirjala fasting without food or water, while others follow a water-only, milk-based, fruit-based or single-meal fast.
Grains, rice, wheat, lentils and beans are generally avoided on Ekadashi. A fruit-based vrat may include fruits, milk, curd, nuts, potatoes, sweet potatoes, sabudana, singhara flour and rock salt. Food should be simple, fresh and sattvic.
Children, pregnant women, elderly people and anyone with a medical condition should avoid severe fasting without suitable medical guidance. Devotion and sincerity are more important than physical hardship.
How to Perform Parana
The fast is concluded on Dwadashi through a ritual known as Parana. On Monday, August 10, devotees should bathe, worship Lord Vishnu and offer food or charity according to their capacity.
The fast may then be broken during the prescribed local Parana period with water, Tulsi or simple sattvic food. Parana is considered an essential part of the Ekadashi observance and should preferably be completed within the appropriate Dwadashi period.
Benefits of Observing Kamika Ekadashi
According to Hindu tradition, observing Kamika Ekadashi with faith is believed to purify the mind, reduce negative tendencies and bring inner peace. Devotees seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings for forgiveness, protection, prosperity and spiritual progress.
Fasting also creates space for self-reflection and discipline. When combined with prayer, charity and kind conduct, the observance becomes a meaningful practice of gratitude and personal transformation.
Celebrate Kamika Ekadashi with Pujas Shoppe
Prepare your home for Kamika Ekadashi with devotion and the right puja essentials. From sacred idols and puja thalis to diyas, incense and worship accessories, Pujas Shoppe helps you create a peaceful and spiritually uplifting puja space.
This Kamika Ekadashi, surrender your worries at the feet of Lord Vishnu, practise kindness and welcome peace, purity and divine blessings into your home.
