Spiritual Benefits of Observing Apara Ekadashi
09 MAY, 2026
Apara Ekadashi, observed during the Krishna Paksha of the month of Jyeshtha (May-June), is one of the most powerful and spiritually uplifting Ekadashis described in the Brahmanda Purana. In a conversation between Maharaj Yudhishthira and Lord Sri Krishna, the Supreme Lord beautifully explains the unlimited glories of this sacred day and how its observance can purify even the most sinful reactions.
Glories of Apara Ekadashi
The word “Apara” means unlimited, signifying the boundless mercy and merit one receives by sincerely observing this Ekadashi. Lord Sri Krishna explains that even severe sinful reactions caused by dishonesty, cheating, blasphemy, neglect of duty, and disrespect toward spiritual authorities can be destroyed by the powerful mercy of this sacred vrata. The Lord especially emphasizes truthfulness, sincerity, and proper conduct in life, while encouraging everyone to take shelter of devotional service for purification and spiritual upliftment.
The scriptures further glorify Apara Ekadashi by declaring that the merit attained from observing it equals the results of many exalted pious activities, such as bathing at scared holy places like Pushkara and Prayag, worshipping at Varanasi, visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath, and giving charity during holy occasions.
The Power of Apara Ekadashi
Lord Krishna beautifully compares Apara Ekadashi to an axe that cuts down the forest of sins, a blazing fire that burns sinful reactions to ashes, and the rising sun that destroys that darkness of ignorance. In this way, the observance of this Ekadashi helps one progress steadily on the path of bhakti.
In his narration Lord Krishna also mentions Maharaj Yuddhishthira that human life is temporary, like a bubble in water, and should therefore be utilized for spiritual advancement and devotional service to the Lord.
Observing Apara Ekadashi
On this sacred day, devotees engage in fasting according to their capacity, abstaining from grains, legumes, and pulses, while engaging in chanting the holy names of the Lord, hearing Hari-katha, reading Bhagavad-Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, and increasing their devotional practices.
Apara Ekadashi will be observed on 13th May 2026. The fast-breaking time (Parana) on 14th May 2026 for devotees in Mumbai is from 07:04 AM to 11:25 AM.
We warmly invite you to support our efforts on this auspicious day in serving society through your generous contribution. Please visit: https://iskconbhiwandi.org/apara-ekadashi