When is Prabodhini and Utpanna Ekadashi Vrat in November 2024? Know date, timings, significance and more

Ekadashi in November 2024: Ekadashi fasting is an important ritual in Hindu culture, valued for its spiritual benefits and potential to create good karma. The word "Ekadashi" comes from the Sanskrit word for "eleven," showing that it falls on the eleventh day of each lunar fortnight. Each month has two Ekadashis: one during Shukla Paksha (the waxing moon phase) and one during Krishna Paksha (the waning moon phase). In November, there are two key Ekadashis: Prabodhini Ekadashi and Utpanna Ekadashi.

Prabodhini Ekadashi 2024 Date & Timings

Singnificance of Prabodhini Ekadashi

Prabodhini Ekadashi, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi, is a significant day in the Hindu calendar. It takes place in the Kartik month and marks the day when Lord Vishnu awakens from his long cosmic rest, ending the four months of Chaturmas, which is considered inauspicious for major ceremonies. Devotees observe this Ekadashi with deep devotion, often fasting and chanting the Krishna Maha Mantra throughout the day.

Prabodhini Ekadashi holds spiritual importance as it is believed to wash away sins and guide devotees towards peace and moksha (freedom from the cycle of rebirth). With Dev Uthani Ekadashi, the four-month pause ends, and Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe, awakens. This allows joyful events to resume, like weddings, engagements, naming ceremonies, and housewarmings.

Dev Uthani Ekadashi is celebrated with great joy and devotion by followers of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna across the country. Temples dedicated to Lord Krishna are adorned with flowers and lights in honour of this special occasion.

Utpanna Ekadashi's date and timings

Significance of Utpanna Ekadashi

The Utpanna Ekadashi fast holds great significance in Hinduism. Devotees of Lord Vishnu observe this fast to seek salvation and find relief from life’s challenges. For those new to Ekadashi fasting, beginning with Utpanna Ekadashi can be especially beneficial.

The process of ending the fast is called Parana and happens after sunrise the day following Ekadashi. It is important to break the fast before the Dwadashi Tithi ends. If Dwadashi finishes before sunrise, the fast should still be broken only after sunrise. Additionally, the fast should not be broken during Hari Vasar; devotees should wait until Hari Vasar concludes. The ideal time to break the fast is in the morning, avoiding midday if possible.

Ekadashi Fasting and Practices in November

In November, Ekadashi fasts—whether for Prabodhini or Utpanna Ekadashi—typically involve abstaining from food from sunrise on Ekadashi day until the next morning. Some devotees observe a strict water-only fast, while others may have a fruit-based fast, based on personal preferences and spiritual practices. During both Ekadashis, devotees focus on meditation, staying away from worldly distractions. Reciting the Krishna Maha Mantra is central to the fast, as it’s believed to deepen spiritual growth and strengthen their bond with Lord Vishnu.

Why is Ekadashi Fasting Important for Hindus?

For many Hindus, keeping the Ekadashi fast in November is a way to achieve spiritual cleansing. This observance is thought to clear past karma and protect from future difficulties. Many believe that by fasting on Ekadashi, devotees can reduce negative influences and move closer to moksha, or liberation. Showing devotion on Prabodhini and Utpanna Ekadashi is said to bring blessings from Lord Vishnu, with the hope of attaining a place in Vaikuntha Dham, the eternal abode of Lord Vishnu.