New Delhi: Vijaya Ekadashi is an important Ekadashi fast observed in devotion to Lord Vishnu. It falls during the Krishna Paksha of the Phalguna month. This Ekadashi is linked with the idea of victory over problems, self-control, and mental balance.

Many devotees observe this vrat with faith, believing that honest and disciplined observance helps reduce ongoing difficulties and gives strength during tough times in life. Tanya Singh, Astrologer, Astropatri shares important sights on the festival.

When is Vijaya Ekadashi in 2026?

In 2026, Vijaya Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, 13 February.

According to Panchang calculations-

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 12:22 PM on 12 February 2026
  


• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 2:25 PM on 13 February 2026

Devotees should observe the fast on Friday, as the Ekadashi tithi is present at sunrise that day.

In Hindu timekeeping, the day is determined by sunrise rather than midnight. This sunrise-based system is why Ekadashi fasting depends on the presence of tithi at sunrise, and why dates may appear different from the modern calendar format.

Vijaya Ekadashi Parana Time

Parana, the ritual of breaking the Ekadashi fast, is performed on the following day, during Dwadashi tithi.

For Vijaya Ekadashi 2026, Parana falls on Saturday, 14 February.
The suitable time for Parana is from 7:00 AM to 9:14 AM, while Dwadashi tithi continues until 4:01 PM.

Scriptural guidelines advise that Parana should not be done during Hari Vasara, which is the initial part of Dwadashi tithi. Early morning hours are considered the most appropriate. If that window is missed due to unavoidable reasons, Parana may be done later, but it should not be delayed beyond Dwadashi.

Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat Rituals

The observance of Vijaya Ekadashi follows a disciplined yet simple spiritual routine.

Devotees wake up early, take a ritual bath, and resolve to observe the vrat with devotion. Lord Vishnu is worshipped with flowers, incense, tulsi leaves, and lamps. Many devotees recite the Vishnu Sahasranama, listen to Ekadashi vrat katha, or chant Vishnu mantras throughout the day.

Grains, pulses, rice, and lentils are avoided. Those observing a strict fast consume only water, while others follow a fruit and milk-based diet. The day is ideally spent in prayer, silence, charity, and spiritual reflection.

Significance of Vijaya Ekadashi

The significance of Vijaya Ekadashi is explained in traditional texts through the story of Vakdalbhya Muni and Lord Rama. It is believed that Lord Rama observed this Ekadashi before his journey to Lanka, which ultimately led to victory over Ravana.

Symbolically, Vijaya Ekadashi represents victory over fear, doubt, and internal weakness. It is often observed by people facing prolonged struggles, legal matters, career uncertainty, or emotional turbulence, not as a guarantee of outcomes, but as a way to cultivate patience, clarity, and inner strength.

Householders generally observe the fast on the primary Ekadashi day. In certain traditions, ascetics, widows, and those pursuing spiritual liberation may observe the alternate Ekadashi when advised. Some devoted followers of Lord Vishnu observe fasting with greater austerity as a personal spiritual practice.

Vijaya Ekadashi is less about rigid ritual and more about conscious discipline. Observed with balance and understanding, it encourages steadiness of mind, restraint of habits, and faith in gradual progress. For many, it serves as a spiritual pause that restores focus before moving forward.