Sarva PanchangSarva Panchang
Ekadashi

Padmini Ekadashi

Also called: Adhika Masa Shukla Ekadashi, Purushottama Shukla Ekadashi

Padmini Ekadashi occurs in the bright fortnight of Adhik Maas, the additional lunar month inserted periodically into the calendar. It is not an annual observance in an ordinary lunar year. The vrata tradition gives this additional month special importance for devotion and religious discipline.

Key facts

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

The story

In a widely circulated account, King Kritavirya and Queen Padmini long for a child. The queen seeks guidance from Anasuya, who teaches her a vrata during Adhik Maas. The story associates the observance with the birth of Kartavirya. Some versions also connect the narrative with Kartavirya's later encounter with Ravana; details differ across retellings.

Practices

  • Observe Padmini Ekadashi only when Adhik Maas occurs, using the local Panchang for its date. Worship, recitation, charity and the customary fast are common practices.

Common questions

When is Padmini Ekadashi observed?
Padmini Ekadashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha eleventh tithi (Ekadashi) of Adhik Maas.

Types of Ekadashi