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Ekadashi is one of the most significant days in Hinduism, as devotees observe fasts and worship Lord Vishnu and Maa Lakshmi in the hope of receiving heavenly benefits and achieving salvation from sins.
Ekadashi, which falls during the Krishna Paksha of the Ashvina (Ashwin) month, is celebrated as Indira Ekadashi. It is being observed during Pitru Paksha; hence, people will fast and perform shraadh as well.
According to Hindu texts, following this fast removes Pitru Dosha (ancestral affliction), brings comfort to forebears’ souls, and bestows Moksha upon followers.
This year, Indira Ekadashi is being marked on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, according to Drik Panchang. Its tithi began at 12:21 AM on September 17 and will last till 11:39 PM on the same date.
Devotees are recommended to conduct Parana (breaking the fast) between 6:07 AM and 10:12 AM on Thursday, September 18, with the Dwadashi ending on Parana Tithi at 11:24 PM.
Indrasena, a benevolent king in the Satyuga, ruled the Mahishmati kingdom. Devarishi Narada Muni visited Indrasena’s court to discuss his father’s quest to attain Moksha and his struggles to wash off sins.
Narada Muni advised Indrasena to observe a fast (vrat) on the Ekadashi Tithi of Ashwin Krishna Paksha and pray to Lord Vishnu to liberate his father’s soul. He also had to pray to Lord Vishnu on the Dashami Tithi and pay obeisance to his dead ancestors. By observing the vrat, Indrasena helped his father attain Moksha.
The significance behind this story is that whatever vow a man makes, he must keep it with body, mind, and money. It is not acceptable to violate a vow after having done something.
Indira Ekadashi fast is meant to save departed souls and relieve them from Yamaloka’s sorrows, and according to Hindu teachings, keeping this fast not only helps to achieve moksha but also promotes harmony and success in family life.
It is also regarded as an expression of devotion to Lord Vishnu, the universe’s preserver. Devotees believe that practising this vrat with full faith results in divine blessings that remove sins and barriers from one’s life.
