Jaya Ekadashi is considered one of the most powerful Ekadashis due to its unique benefits. It protects against rebirth as ghosts, spirits, or in hellish conditions (pishacha yoni or preta yoni). Fasting removes even severe sins, including that equivalent to brahma-hatya (killing a brahmin). "Jaya" means victory; it grants triumph over demonic influences, remorse, and obstacles.
In 2026, Jaya Ekadashi falls on January 29, Thursday. Dates can vary slightly by your location and panchang tradition—always check a local calendar for exact timings. Observance leads to residence in Lord Vishnu's abode (Vaikuntha) and ultimate liberation. Brings prosperity, health, forgiveness of past mistakes (knowingly or unknowingly), and spiritual elevation. Merely hearing or reading its glories yields great punya (merit).
Jaya Ekadashi Tithi Details 2026
Jaya Ekadashi (also known as Bhishma Ekadashi or Bhaimi Ekadashi in some traditions) in 2026 falls on January 29, 2026 (Thursday). The fasting is observed on January 29, starting from sunrise (or before) on the Ekadashi day, with parana (breaking the fast) on January 30 after sunrise.
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Ekadashi Begins | 04:35 PM, Jan 28, Wednesday |
| Ekadashi Ends | 01:55 PM, Jan 29, Thursday |
| Parana Time (Breaking Fast) | 07:10 AM to 10:47 AM on Jan 30 |
Spiritual Significance of Jaya Ekadashi
Jaya Ekadashi obliterates sinful reactions and demoniac influences. It frees one from ghostly existence and the cycle of birth and death. It falls during the Shukla Paksha of Magha month.
Benefits of Observing Jaya Ekadashi
Equivalent to performing all charities, sacrifices, and pilgrimages. One who observes it properly resides in Vaikuntha for billions of yugas. Destroys sins equivalent to killing a brahmin.
- Liberation from ghostly or lower realms — It protects against rebirth as ghosts, spirits, or in hellish conditions (pishacha yoni or preta yoni).
- Absolution of grave sins — Fasting removes even severe sins, including those equivalent to brahma-hatya (killing a brahmin).
- Victory over negative forces — "Jaya" means victory; it grants triumph over demonic influences, remorse, and obstacles.
- Path to Vaikuntha and Moksha — Observance leads to residence in Lord Vishnu's abode (Vaikuntha) and ultimate liberation.
- Other merits — Brings prosperity, health, forgiveness of past mistakes (knowingly or unknowingly), and spiritual elevation. Merely hearing or reading its glories yields great punya (merit).