Ekadashi 21 of 24
Indira Ekadashi
इन्दिरा एकादशी
Paksha
Krishna
Masa
Ashwin
Window
September-October
Deity
Vishnu
Origin & story
Brahma Vaivarta Purana.
King Indrasena performed this vrat for his deceased father who had fallen to lower realms. The merit of Indira Ekadashi observed by descendants liberates ancestors from those realms. Falls during Pitru Paksha — most pitr-friendly Ekadashi of the year.
Worship mantra
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Fasting rule
Phalahara fast; perform tarpana + offer to ancestors.
Foods permitted
- ✓ Milk
- ✓ Fruits
Foods forbidden
- ✗ Grains
- ✗ Lentils
- ✗ Onion / garlic
Benefits
- ◈Liberation of ancestors from naraka
- ◈Removal of pitra-dosha
- ◈Falls in Pitru Paksha — most powerful timing for ancestor work
Who should observe
Special note
THE Ekadashi for ancestor liberation — falls during 16-day Pitru Paksha window.
Want Indira Ekadashi vrata guided by a qualified pandit?
Pandit-guided Vishnu puja, parana (fast-breaking) muhurat, and personalized sankalp ensure your vrata bears full merit.