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Indira Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually potent Ekadashis observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Ashwin, just before the Pitru Paksha ends. This sacred day is dedicated to seeking moksha (liberation) for one’s ancestors (Pitru) and is believed to absolve their souls from any earthly bondage. In 2025, Indira Ekadashi falls on Wednesday, 17th September. It is a day of deep devotion, fasting, and prayers for both personal upliftment and ancestral peace.
Indira Ekadashi 2025 Date, Tithi, and Parana Time
- Ekadashi Date: Wednesday, 17 September 2025
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 12:21 AM on 17th September 2025
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 11:39 PM on 17th September 2025
- Parana (Fast Breaking) Time: 18th September 2025, from 06:17 AM to 08:43 AM
Note: Parana must be done within this time frame. Breaking the fast beyond this period is not recommended as per scriptural guidelines.
Spiritual Significance of Indira Ekadashi
Indira Ekadashi holds a special place in the Hindu calendar due to its connection with Pitru Moksha (liberation of ancestors). According to the Brahmavaivarta Purana, those who observe this vrat with pure devotion help liberate their forefathers from Naraka (hellish realms) and uplift their soul to the heavenly abode. This Ekadashi is a golden opportunity for devotees to express gratitude to their departed ancestors and seek divine blessings for family peace and prosperity.
Read Also: How to Perform Shravan Somvar Puja? Complete Guide, Rituals, and Significance
Customs, Rituals, and Traditions of Indira Ekadashi
On this day, devotees observe a strict fast, engage in Pitru tarpan (ancestral offerings), and worship Lord Vishnu with full devotion. People also perform Shraddha rituals if they fall within the Pitru Paksha period. Donations, feeding Brahmins, offering food to cows and the needy are considered highly auspicious.
What to Eat and Avoid During Indira Ekadashi Fast
Allowed Foods:
- Fruits (banana, apple, papaya, etc.)
- Dry fruits and nuts
- Rock salt (Sendha namak)
- Milk, curd, and ghee
- Sabudana (tapioca), rajgira (amaranth), and kuttu (buckwheat)
Foods to Avoid:
- Rice and rice products
- Grains and legumes
- Garlic and onion
- Meat, fish, and eggs
- Regular salt
Step-by-Step Rituals for Indira Ekadashi Vrat
Morning Rituals:
- Wake up early during Brahma Muhurat.
- Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
- Offer prayers to your Ishta Devata and Lord Vishnu.
- Resolve (sankalp) to observe the vrat with devotion.
Daytime Rituals:
- Read or listen to Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
- Perform tarpan and offer pind daan for ancestors.
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama or “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
Evening Rituals:
- Perform deep daan (lamp offering) in memory of ancestors.
- Visit a Vishnu or Krishna temple if possible.
- Offer Tulsi leaves, flowers, and bhog to Lord Vishnu.
Parana (Next Day):
- Wake up before sunrise.
- Offer prayers and light a lamp.
- Break your fast between 06:17 AM to 08:43 AM.
- Feed cows, the poor, and offer charity for Pitru Shanti.
Benefits of Observing Indira Ekadashi Vrat
- Liberates ancestors from lower realms
- Brings peace to the family
- Enhances spiritual consciousness
- Accumulates punya (divine merit)
- Removes negative ancestral karma
Mythological Story Associated with Indira Ekadashi
According to the Brahmavaivarta Purana, there was once a king named Indrasena who ruled the kingdom of Mahishmati. One day, Sage Narada visited him and informed him that his deceased father was suffering in the netherworld. To free his father’s soul, Narada advised the king to observe the Indira Ekadashi vrat.
The king performed the vrat with utmost sincerity, and due to its divine power, his father’s soul was liberated and ascended to heaven. Since then, this Ekadashi became a day of Pitru Shanti and Moksha.
Powerful Mantras to Chant on Indira Ekadashi
1. Vishnu Mantra
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
English Meaning: I bow to Lord Vasudeva (Vishnu), the sustainer of the universe.
2. Pitru Shanti Mantra
Om Namo Aryamaaya Namah
English Meaning: Salutations to Aryama, the deity associated with ancestors.
3. Ekadashi Vrat Sankalp Mantra
Mamkhil Paap Prashaman Purvak Shree Vishnu Preetyartham Ekadashi Vratam Karishye
English Meaning: I observe this Ekadashi fast to please Lord Vishnu and to destroy all sins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I drink water during Indira Ekadashi fast?
Yes, unless you are doing Nirjala (waterless) fast, you can drink water throughout the day.
Q2. Can we perform Pitru Tarpan if not done during Shraddha?
Yes, Indira Ekadashi is especially suited for performing Tarpan for ancestors.
Q3. What if someone cannot fast the entire day?
Partial fasting with permitted foods and sincere prayers still earns merit.
Q4. Is this Ekadashi only for people with deceased ancestors?
No. Even those without recent losses can perform this vrat to earn merit and honor ancestral lineage.
Q5. Can women observe this vrat?
Absolutely. Women can perform all rituals of this Ekadashi and receive the same blessings.
Conclusion: A Day of Gratitude and Spiritual Cleansing
Indira Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting; it is a sacred opportunity to connect with your roots, honor the departed, and purify your soul. By observing this vrat with sincerity and devotion, one can not only bring peace to the ancestors but also attract divine grace in life. Whether you do it for Pitru Moksha or personal spiritual growth, the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this Ekadashi are immense and transformative.
Click Here To Read In Hindi: कब है इंदिरा एकादशी 2025? जानिए तिथि और पूजा नियम | Indira Ekadashi 2025
