Sarva PanchangSarva Panchang
Ekadashi

Yogini Ekadashi

Also called: Yoginī Ekadashi

Yogini Ekadashi is associated with relief from suffering and the consequences of neglecting one's duties. Its story of Hemamali connects the vrata with repentance and the restoration of a life disrupted by a curse.

Key facts

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

The story

Hemamali serves Kubera but neglects his duty while absorbed in his relationship with his wife. Kubera curses him, and Hemamali suffers as an outcast. He eventually meets the sage Markandeya, who advises him to observe Yogini Ekadashi. The story credits the vrata with ending his suffering and lifting the curse. Details vary among retellings.

Practices

  • Devotees may hear Hemamali's story, worship Vishnu and follow their customary fast. The alternate label Gauna, when used, concerns the calendar date rather than a separate story.

Common questions

When is Yogini Ekadashi observed?
Yogini Ekadashi is observed on the Krishna Paksha eleventh tithi (Ekadashi) of Ashadha (Purnimanta); Jyeshtha (Amanta).

Types of Ekadashi