Rama Ekadashi on November 5: fasting rules, dos and don'ts, and the time to break the fast

According to the Panchang, Rama Ekadashi, which falls in the month of Kartik, is considered especially auspicious for seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The Ekadashi is described as having special religious significance in Hinduism. It is believed that fasting and worship with a sincere heart on this day bring happiness and prosperity.

On the tithi, Ekadashi begins at 11:03 am on Wednesday, November 4, and ends at 10:35 am on November 5. By the Udaya tithi reckoning, the Rama Ekadashi fast will be observed on Thursday, November 5. The fast can be broken on Friday, November 6, 2026, between 6:37 am and 8:48 am.

Worship of Lord Vishnu, chanting of mantras and charity are given particular importance on this day. According to religious belief, observing certain rules brings the grace of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. By tradition, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in his Keshava form on this day. Yellow flowers, fruits, incense, lamps and tulsi leaves are offered to him during the puja. Goddess Lakshmi is also worshipped as prescribed. It is believed that this brings happiness, peace and prosperity to the home.

Tulsi holds a special place in the worship of Lord Vishnu, and offering tulsi leaves to him on Rama Ekadashi is considered auspicious. However, there is a tradition of not plucking tulsi leaves on Ekadashi, so the leaves should be plucked and kept before the day. Worship the tulsi plant and hold it in reverence.

Reciting Lord Vishnu's mantras on this auspicious day is considered rewarding. One may chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya". Reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama and religious stories related to Lord Vishnu is also considered auspicious. Donating grain, clothes, fruit and everyday necessities on Rama Ekadashi is regarded as a meritorious act.

Now for what to avoid. Eating rice is considered forbidden on Ekadashi. According to religious belief, eating rice on this day can affect the merit of the fast. For this reason, not only those fasting but also those eating normal meals are advised to stay away from rice. Tamasic foods such as meat, fish, eggs, garlic and onion should also be avoided. People are advised to keep the mind calm by eating sattvic food.

According to religious belief, the Rama Ekadashi fast falls in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Kartik. Puranic belief holds that this fast frees one from sins and brings the blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is said that those who observe the fast with devotion and discipline bring positivity into their lives and maintain happiness and prosperity in the family.

This information on subjects such as religion, astrology and Vastu is meant only for readers' information. Consult experts before trying any of it.