Sarva PanchangSarva Panchang
Ekadashi

Saphala Ekadashi

Also called: Pausha Krishna Ekadashi

Saphala means 'fruitful' or 'successful.' The vrata is associated with the idea that sincere devotion can transform a troubled life. It is one of the regular annual Ekadashis, distinct from the two special Ekadashis that occur in Adhik Maas.

Key facts

Paksha
Krishna Paksha
Lunar month
Pausha (Purnimanta); Margashirsha (Amanta)
Observed on
The eleventh tithi of Krishna Paksha
Deities
Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna

The story

The common Saphala Ekadashi story concerns Lumpaka, the wayward son of King Mahishmata, who is expelled from the kingdom. Living in the forest, he spends an Ekadashi night awake and without a proper meal, in part because of his circumstances. The story attributes his change of fortune and eventual reconciliation with the kingdom to the merit of the observance. Details differ among retellings.

Practices

  • Devotees may hear Lumpaka's story, worship Vishnu and observe the fast according to their tradition. The story emphasizes reform and the possibility of a new beginning.

Common questions

When is Saphala Ekadashi observed?
Saphala Ekadashi is observed on the Krishna Paksha eleventh tithi (Ekadashi) of Pausha (Purnimanta); Margashirsha (Amanta).

Types of Ekadashi