Rama Ekadashi on November 5; Ekadashi tithi begins at 11:03 am on November 4

Rama Ekadashi falls on Thursday, November 5, this year. Many people are unsure whether it is on November 4 or 5. According to the Vedic panchang, the Ekadashi tithi begins at 11:03 am on Wednesday, November 4, and ends at 10:35 am on Thursday, November 5. By the udayatithi reckoning, Rama Ekadashi is observed on November 5. The fast will be broken on November 6, on the Dwadashi tithi.

The Ekadashi fast carries special religious importance in Hinduism. There are 24 Ekadashi fasts in a year, and Lord Vishnu is worshipped twice every month. According to belief, worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi in the proper manner on this day brings happiness, prosperity and good fortune. The month of Kartik is considered highly auspicious for worship and religious activities.

Devotees wait eagerly for the first Ekadashi of this month. On this day Lord Vishnu is worshipped with devotion, and Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped along with him to seek the blessings of both. The Rama Ekadashi fast is observed to obtain all material comforts in life and moksha in the life after death.

On Ekadashi, devotees should rise during Brahma Muhurta, bathe and then take the vow to fast. During the puja, yellow items should be offered to Lord Vishnu, as yellow is considered his favourite colour. Goddess Lakshmi should be worshipped along with Lord Vishnu. Offering water to a peepal tree on this day is also considered auspicious.

Certain rules are also prescribed for Ekadashi. Rice should be avoided on this day. Tamasic foods such as meat, liquor, garlic and onion should not be eaten either. A person observing the fast should avoid lying and abusive language. Plucking tulsi on Ekadashi is considered forbidden, so tulsi needed for the puja should be plucked a day earlier and kept aside.

According to Hindu mythology, Rama Ekadashi is a special day for the worship of Lord Vishnu. On this day devotees engage in religious acts such as prayer, chanting, meditation and charity. It is believed that devotion brings spiritual peace and inspires positive thoughts. The purpose of the day is described as emphasising devotion, self-restraint and virtuous conduct in life.