Jaya Ekadashi Bhaimi Ekadashi: Thursday, January 29, 2026

Jaya Ekadashi, also known as Bhaimi Ekadashi, is a highly auspicious day in the Hindu lunar calendar dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. In the year 2026, Jaya Ekadashi will be observed on Thursday, January 29, during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the sacred month of Magha. This Ekadashi holds immense spiritual power and is believed to free devotees from sins, negative energies, and the cycle of rebirth.

The word “Jaya” means victory, symbolizing triumph over ignorance, evil tendencies, and karmic bondage. Observing this Ekadashi with faith and discipline is said to grant victory over internal weaknesses and external obstacles, leading the devotee toward spiritual liberation.

Religious and Spiritual Significance

Jaya Ekadashi is particularly significant because it is believed to destroy even the gravest sins and grant freedom from lower forms of existence. Ancient scriptures such as the Padma Purana and Bhavishya Purana describe the glory of this Ekadashi, stating that its observance bestows merit equivalent to performing major religious sacrifices.

This Ekadashi is also associated with freedom from ghostly or negative energies, making it spiritually unique. Devotees believe that sincere fasting and prayer on Jaya Ekadashi protect the individual from unseen fears, disturbances, and negative karmic influences.

Why Jaya Ekadashi Is Also Called Bhaimi Ekadashi

The alternate name Bhaimi Ekadashi is derived from the term “Bhima”, symbolizing fear and suffering. This Ekadashi is believed to eliminate fear—both physical and spiritual—and liberate the soul from suffering caused by past karmas. It teaches devotees that devotion to Lord Vishnu is the ultimate refuge from fear and bondage.

Mythological Story of Jaya Ekadashi (Vrat Katha)

The most popular legend associated with Jaya Ekadashi comes from the Padma Purana. It narrates the story of Malyavan, the king of Gandharvas, and his servants Pushpadanta and Malini, who were celestial dancers in the court of Lord Indra.

During a divine performance, the two dancers became distracted due to mutual affection and failed to perform with proper devotion. Enraged by this disrespect, Lord Indra cursed them to be born as ghosts (Pishachas) on Earth. They suffered immense pain, hunger, and isolation in the Himalayan region.

After years of suffering, they unknowingly observed a fast on Jaya Ekadashi due to lack of food. This accidental observance purified their souls. Pleased by the power of Jaya Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu appeared before them, freed them from the curse, and restored them to their divine forms.

This story highlights the extraordinary power of Jaya Ekadashi, proving that even an unintentional fast on this day can lead to spiritual redemption.

Rituals and Observances

Devotees observing Jaya Ekadashi begin their day early, preferably during Brahma Muhurta, and take a ritual bath to purify the body and mind. Clean clothes are worn, and the house altar is prepared for worship.

The main rituals include:

• Worship of Lord Vishnu or Lord Krishna
• Offering tulsi leaves, fruits, flowers, and incense
• Recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama, Ekadashi Vrat Katha, or Bhagavad Gita
• Chanting the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”

Fasting is an essential part of Jaya Ekadashi. Devotees may observe:

• Nirjala Vrat (without food and water)
• Phalahar Vrat (fruits, milk, and water)
• Partial fasting based on physical capacity

The fast is broken on Dwadashi after offering food to Brahmins or the needy.

Rules and Discipline During the Vrat

Ekadashi fasting is not limited to abstaining from food; it also emphasizes mental purity. Devotees are advised to:

• Avoid grains, pulses, and non-vegetarian food
• Refrain from anger, gossip, and negative thoughts
• Practice celibacy and truthfulness
• Spend time in prayer, meditation, and self-reflection

Such discipline enhances the spiritual benefits of the vrat.

Benefits of Observing Jaya Ekadashi

Observing Jaya Ekadashi with devotion is believed to bring multiple benefits:

• Destruction of past sins and negative karma
• Freedom from fear, anxiety, and unseen disturbances
• Spiritual growth and inner clarity
• Blessings of peace, prosperity, and protection
• Progress toward moksha (liberation)

From a psychological perspective, fasting and prayer help calm the mind, increase self-control, and foster gratitude.

Jaya Ekadashi in Modern Life

In the modern world, where stress, fear, and distractions dominate daily life, Jaya Ekadashi serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with higher values. Even those unable to perform full rituals can observe the essence of the Ekadashi through simple fasting, mindful living, and acts of kindness.

Digital distractions can be minimized on this day, allowing space for spiritual reading, meditation, and family prayer. The core message of Jaya Ekadashi—victory over inner darkness—is timeless and universally relevant.

Dos and Don’ts on Jaya Ekadashi

Dos:

• Observe fasting according to capacity
• Chant Vishnu mantras and read scriptures
• Maintain purity in thought and action
• Practice charity and humility

Don’ts:

• Avoid grains and pulses
• Do not engage in arguments or harmful behavior
• Avoid laziness and excessive sleep

Conclusion

Jaya Ekadashi, observed on Thursday, January 29, 2026, is a spiritually uplifting occasion that symbolizes victory over fear, sin, and ignorance. Known also as Bhaimi Ekadashi, it teaches that sincere devotion to Lord Vishnu has the power to liberate the soul from even the deepest suffering.

By observing this Ekadashi with faith, discipline, and compassion, devotees can experience inner peace, divine protection, and spiritual progress. In essence, Jaya Ekadashi is not just a ritual—it is a celebration of spiritual triumph and divine grace.