Shattila Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually significant Ekadashi fasts observed by devotees of Lord Vishnu. Falling in the Krishna Paksha of Magha month, this sacred day is dedicated to donation, fasting, and purification, especially through the use of til (sesame seeds).
In 2026, Shattila Ekadashi holds special importance for those seeking freedom from past sins, relief from financial troubles, and spiritual upliftment.
What Is Shattila Ekadashi?
Shattila Ekadashi is a sacred fasting day devoted to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, where sesame seeds (Til) are used in six sacred ways—hence the name Shat-tila.
According to Hindu scriptures, observing this vrat helps devotees:
- Remove sins of past lives
- Gain financial stability
- Receive Vishnu Kripa
- Attain moksha (liberation)
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Date
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 will be observed on:
- Date: Wednesday, 14 January 2026
- Hindu Month: Magha
- Paksha: Krishna Paksha
- Festival Type: Ekadashi Vrat
This Ekadashi is considered extremely powerful for daan (donation) and spiritual cleansing.
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Tithi Timing
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 13 जनवरी को दोपहर 03 बजकर 17 मिनट पर
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 14 जनवरी को शाम 05 बजकर 52 मिनट पर
Note: Since Ekadashi tithi prevails during sunrise on 14 January, the vrat is observed on Wednesday.
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Vrat Muhurat
The Vrat Muhurat refers to the most auspicious time to observe fasting and perform puja.
- Vrat Start: Before sunrise on 14 January 2026
- Best Puja Time: Morning hours after bath (Brahma Muhurat preferred)
Devotees should take a holy bath, preferably with water mixed with sesame seeds, before beginning worship.
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Parana Time
Parana is the ritual of breaking the Ekadashi fast, performed on Dwadashi Tithi.
- Parana Date: सुबह 07 बजकर 15 मिनट से 09 बजकर 21 मिनट तक है।
- Parana Time: After sunrise, during Dwadashi Tithi
- Recommended Duration: Morning hours
Important: Never break Ekadashi fast during Hari Vasara (first quarter of Dwadashi).
Importance of Til (Sesame Seeds) on Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi derives its name from the six sacred uses of til:
- Til Snan – Bathing with sesame-infused water
- Til Lepan – Applying til paste
- Til Havan – Offering til in sacred fire
- Til Bhojan – Eating food prepared with til
- Til Daan – Donating sesame seeds
- Til Jal – Offering til-mixed water to ancestors
According to scriptures, sesame seeds were created from Lord Vishnu’s sweat, making them extremely sacred.
Shattila Ekadashi Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step Rituals)
Morning Rituals
Wake up early during Brahma Muhurat
Take a bath using water mixed with til
Wear clean yellow or white clothes
Puja Procedure
Install idol or image of Lord Vishnu
Offer Tulsi leaves, sesame seeds, fruits, and flowers
Light a diya with sesame oil
Chant “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Ekadashi Vrat Katha
Donation Ritual
Donate til, blankets, clothes, food, or utensils
Offer charity to Brahmins or the needy
Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Short Summary)
According to Padma Purana, a poor Brahmin woman observed Shattila Ekadashi with deep devotion despite scarcity. Lord Vishnu appeared before her and blessed her with wealth, health, and liberation, proving that bhakti matters more than material offerings.
Rules to Follow on Shattila Ekadashi
Observe nirjala vrat or fruit-based fast
Avoid grains, rice, and lentils
Practice celibacy and truthfulness
Stay away from anger, lies, and negativity
Engage in Vishnu bhajan and japSpiritual & Astrological Benefits of Shattila Ekadashi
Removes Shani dosha and pitra dosha
Brings financial prosperity
Enhances spiritual growth
Destroys sins accumulated over many births
Grants Vaikuntha Lok after death
Who Should Observe Shattila Ekadashi Vrat?
Those facing financial instability
People suffering from career delays
Devotees seeking Lord Vishnu’s blessings
Individuals wanting pitra shanti
Anyone desiring spiritual purification
FAQs on Shattila Ekadashi 2026
Q1. When is Shattila Ekadashi in 2026?
Answer: Shattila Ekadashi will be observed on Wednesday, 14 January 2026.
Q2. Why is til important on Shattila Ekadashi?
Answer: Til symbolizes purity and Vishnu tattva, and its donation removes sins and attracts prosperity.
Q3. Can food be eaten during Shattila Ekadashi?
Answer: Yes, fruits, milk, and til-based food are allowed. Grains are strictly prohibited.
Q4. What is the Parana time for Shattila Ekadashi 2026?
Answer: Parana should be done on 15 January 2026, after sunrise during Dwadashi Tithi.
Q5. Is Shattila Ekadashi good for Shani dosha?
Answer: Yes, donation of til on this day is highly effective for reducing Shani-related obstacles.
Conclusion
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 is not just a fasting day but a powerful spiritual opportunity to cleanse karmic debts, attract prosperity, and strengthen devotion toward Lord Vishnu. Observing this vrat with faith, charity, and discipline brings long-lasting divine blessings.
May Lord Vishnu remove all obstacles from your life and bless you with peace, prosperity, and moksha.
