Phalguna Krishna Ekadashi (amanta: Magha)
Vijaya Ekadashi
Vijaya Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight of Phalguna, at the close of winter. Its name means victory, and the story behind it is among the best known in the Ekadashi cycle.
2026
Friday, 13 February 2026
2027
Thursday, 4 March 2027
The day at a glance
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Significance
Halted on the shore with no way across the ocean to Lanka, Rama was directed by the sage Bakadalbhya to keep this fast with his army before setting out. It is remembered as the vrat kept at the threshold of a hard undertaking: not a charm for success, but the discipline gathered before one.
How Vijaya Ekadashi is observed
Devotees fast from grains, set a water pot topped with a coconut before an image of Vishnu, keep the day in worship and reading, and break the fast on Dwadashi morning.
FAQ
What is the story behind Vijaya Ekadashi?
Rama, unable to cross the sea to Lanka, was advised by the sage Bakadalbhya to observe this Ekadashi with his army before the crossing.
Which lunar month is it in?
The dark fortnight of Phalguna by the purnimanta reckoning this site follows; amanta almanacs list the identical day under Magha.
How is it different from Vijayadashami?
Only the shared word for victory connects them. Vijaya Ekadashi is a Vishnu fast at the end of winter; Vijayadashami (Dussehra) is the tenth day of bright Ashwin, in autumn.
Around the same season
Plan around Vijaya Ekadashi
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