Mumbai: In Hinduism, Ekadashi fasts are considered highly auspicious and spiritually rewarding. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, devotees observe a total of 24 Ekadashis in a year. It is believed that fasting on these sacred days helps wash away sins, brings divine blessings, and grants peace to the soul. The fast is traditionally broken (known as paran) the following day.
In 2025, the Krishna Paksha Ekadashi of the Ashwin month will be observed as Indira Ekadashi. This particular Ekadashi holds special significance because it falls during Pitru Paksha – the fortnight dedicated to honouring ancestors. On this day, rituals (shraddh karma) are especially performed for those who passed away on Ekadashi tithi of either fortnight.
Indira Ekadashi 2025 Date and Time
Ekadashi Tithi begins: 17 September 2025, Wednesday, 12:21 AM
Ekadashi Tithi ends: 17 September 2025, Wednesday, 11:39 PM
Vrat Paran (Breaking of Fast)
Date: 18 September 2025, Thursday
Time: Between 6:07 AM and 8:34 AM
Paran must be completed before the end of Dwadashi Tithi, which concludes at 11:24 PM on the same day.
Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
Begin the day with an early morning bath and take the vow of fasting.
Light a lamp before an idol or image of Lord Vishnu. Offer incense, flowers, tulsi leaves and panchamrit.
Present yellow clothes and seasonal fruits to Lord Vishnu.
Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama or recite Vishnu mantras with devotion.
Observe a full-day fast while remembering ancestors (pitras).
In the evening, listen to the Ekadashi story, offer food to Lord Vishnu, and then accept prasad.
According to the Panchang, Indira Ekadashi in 2025 coincides with Parigh Yoga and Shiva Yoga, which enhances its spiritual significance. Observing this vrat is believed to bring the combined merits of Ekadashi fasting and shraddh rituals, ensuring blessings from both Lord Vishnu and one’s forefathers.
Indira Ekadashi 2025, falling on 17 September, carries deep religious importance as it unites devotion to Lord Vishnu with reverence for ancestors during Pitru Paksha. Observed with faith, discipline, and the correct rituals, the vrat not only ensures divine grace but also helps devotees attain freedom from ancestral debts.