Parama Ekadashi, considered one of the rarest Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar, will be observed on June 11, 2026. Unlike the regular 24 Ekadashis that occur every year, this vrat appears only during the extra lunar month known as Adhik Maas and usually comes once in about three years. Religious texts regard it as a highly auspicious day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.Why Parama Ekadashi is considered specialParama Ekadashi occurs during the Krishna Paksha of Adhik Maas. Because this extra month does not occur every year, the Ekadashi associated with it is also rare. Many devotees consider it superior to ordinary Ekadashis because it is believed to bring spiritual merit, remove sins and guide the devotee toward liberation.Parama Ekadashi June 2026 Date and time Parama Ekadashi will be observed on June 11, 2026.Ekadashi begins: 12:57 PM, June 10Ekadashi ends: 10:36 PM, June 11Parama Ekadashi auspicious yogas on the dayTwo favorable yogas are expected during Parma Ekadashi:Sarvarth Siddhi Yoga: Traditionally believed to support success in important activities.Shobhan Yoga: Considered auspicious for business, career and other positive beginnings.Parama Ekadashi mythological importanceReligious traditions associate Parma Ekadashi with several well-known figures:Kubera: The god of wealth is said to have observed this fast and attained his exalted status.King Harishchandra: The truthful king, after losing his kingdom and family, is believed to have regained prosperity through the merit of this vrat.These stories are often cited to show that the observance is linked with restoration, prosperity and spiritual upliftment.Ekadashi June 2026: Belief about the merit of the vratAccording to religious texts, worshipping Lord Vishnu and observing the Parama Ekadashi fast with devotion is believed to bring merit comparable to performing an Ashwamedha Yajna. The tradition also holds that sincere worship on this day can lead to spiritual progress and divine blessings.Parama Ekadashi: How to observe fastCommon practices include:Avoiding heavy food on the night before the fast.Waking early during Brahma Muhurta and taking a bath.Cleaning the home temple and lighting a lamp.Installing or worshipping images of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.Offering yellow flowers to Vishnu and red flowers to Lakshmi.Offering Ganga water, tilak, rice, fruits, sweets and Tulsi leaves.Performing aarti and chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” 108 times.Participating in bhajan, kirtan and evening worship.Believed benefits of the fastDevotees believe that observing Parma Ekadashi can:Bring peace and mental stabilityIncrease positive energyOpen paths to prosperityHelp remove obstaclesSupport spiritual growthThe story of Sumedha and PavitraA popular legend connected with Parama Ekadashi tells of a poor Brahmin named Sumedha and his wife Pavitra in Kampilya Nagar. Though they lacked wealth, they remained devoted to religion and hospitality. When the sage Kaundinya visited their home, Pavitra asked how poverty could be removed. The sage advised them to observe the Parama Ekadashi fast during Adhik Maas.Sumedha and Pavitra followed the vrat with faith. According to the legend, their fortunes changed afterward and they received a home, resources and a better life. The story is often cited as an example of devotion, patience and the transformative power attributed to this rare Ekadashi.(Disclaimer: This article is based on traditional Hindu beliefs, legends and religious texts. Rituals and interpretations may vary across regions and traditions.)