Correct date, fasting timings, and simple worship method for Harishayani Ekadashi 2026 in Jammu.

In Sanatan Dharma, the Ekadashi falling during the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Ashadha month is known by various names such as Harishayani Ekadashi, Devshayani Ekadashi, Ashadhi Ekadashi, or Shayani Ekadashi. This Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it marks the beginning of Chaturmas (a holy four-month period). Religious belief holds that on this day, Lord Shri Hari Vishnu enters a state of cosmic slumber (Yoganidra) in the Kshir Sagar (Ocean of Milk) and awakens four months later on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi (Devutthana Ekadashi). In the year 2026, this fast will be observed on Saturday, July 25. The Harishayani Ekadashi fast will be observed on this same day across North India, including Jammu.

Date of Harishayani Ekadashi 2026 in Jammu
Date of Fast: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Ekadashi Tithi Begins: July 24, 2026, at approximately 9:12 AM
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: July 25, 2026, at approximately 11:34 AM
Paran (Time to break the fast): July 26, 2026, after sunrise, during the designated Dwadashi Muhurat (auspicious time of the twelfth day). A difference of a few minutes in timing is possible depending on the local Panchang (almanac).
Religious Significance of Harishayani Ekadashi

Harishayani Ekadashi holds a special place in Hinduism. It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu enters Yoganidra, and Lord Shiva assumes the responsibility of managing the universe. This also marks the commencement of Chaturmas. During this period, auspicious ceremonies such as weddings and housewarming rituals (Griha Pravesh) are generally not performed; instead, the importance of chanting (Japa), penance (Tapa), charity (Daan), devotional singing (Bhajan-Kirtan), and spiritual practice increases significantly.

Worship Rituals

On the day of Harishayani Ekadashi, devotees may perform worship in the following manner—

Wake up during Brahma Muhurat (the auspicious pre-dawn period), bathe, and wear clean clothes.
Place an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi in the home shrine.
Offer yellow garments, yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, sandalwood paste, and Panchamrit to the Lord. Light an incense stick and a lamp, then chant the Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Chalisa, or the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.”
Take a vow to observe the Ekadashi fast and maintain a sattvic (pure and virtuous) demeanor throughout the day.
In the evening, perform the Aarti of Lord Vishnu again and engage in bhajan-kirtan (devotional singing).
Break the fast (Parana) the following day during the Dwadashi Tithi, following the prescribed rituals.
Rules of the Fast

Certain things should be kept in mind while observing the Harishayani Ekadashi fast—

Do not consume rice or tamasic food (food that induces lethargy or agitation).
Refrain from anger, lying, criticism, and arguments.
Observe a fruit-based diet (phalahar) or a waterless fast (nirjala) as far as possible; decide based on your health.
An offering (bhog) to Lord Vishnu is considered incomplete without a Tulsi leaf.
Donating food grains, clothing, and dakshina (charitable offering) to the needy is considered auspicious.
What to do on Harishayani Ekadashi?
Worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi together.
Light a lamp in front of the Tulsi plant.
Recite the Vishnu Sahasranama or the Bhagavad Gita.
Offer yellow clothes and yellow sweets.
Donate to the poor and needy.
What not to do?
Do not consume garlic, onions, or non-vegetarian food.
Stay away from intoxicants and any form of tamasic behavior.
Do not insult anyone or speak harsh words.
Do not harm trees or plants without reason.
Spiritual Benefits of the Fast

According to religious belief, observing the Harishayani Ekadashi fast brings the special grace of Lord Vishnu. It leads to the cleansing of sins, brings happiness and prosperity to life, and paves the way for spiritual progress. As this day marks the beginning of Chaturmas, regular worship, chanting, and acts of charity are considered to hold special significance.