Sarva PanchangSarva Panchang
Ekadashi

Mohini Ekadashi

Also called: Mohinī Ekadashi

The name recalls Mohini, Vishnu's enchanting form in the story of distributing amrita, the nectar of immortality. The Ekadashi vrata-katha has a distinct narrative about a person burdened by wrongdoing who receives spiritual release through observance; these two associations should not be confused.

Key facts

Paksha
Shukla Paksha
Lunar month
Vaishakha
Observed on
The eleventh tithi of Shukla Paksha
Deities
Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna

The story

In the widely circulated vrata-katha, Rama asks the sage Vasistha about relief from the consequences of past actions. Vasistha describes Mohini Ekadashi and tells of Dhrishtabuddhi, the wayward son of the wealthy Dhanapala, who falls into hardship and receives guidance from the sage Kaundinya. The account credits the observance with his spiritual release. Retellings vary.

Practices

  • Devotees may worship Vishnu or Rama, hear the Dhrishtabuddhi story and observe the fast according to their tradition. The Mohini avatar story is a related name association, not the same vrata-katha.

Common questions

When is Mohini Ekadashi observed?
Mohini Ekadashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha eleventh tithi (Ekadashi) of Vaishakha.

Types of Ekadashi