Yogini Ekadashi is one of the most revered fasting days and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe in Hindu tradition. Devotees believe that observing this vrat with sincerity helps them seek forgiveness for past mistakes, break free from negative karma, and move closer to spiritual growth and liberation.In the Hindu lunar calendar, Ekadashi occurs twice a month — once in the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) and once in the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) — adding up to 24 Ekadashi observances across the year. Yogini Ekadashi falls in the Krishna Paksha of the Ashadha month and is regarded as especially powerful for those seeking inner purification and release from worldly attachments.Yogini Ekadashi 2026: Date and TimingsAccording to Drik Panchang, Yogini Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, July 10, 2026. Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 8:16 AM on July 10 and will end on July 11, 2026 at 5:22 AM. The Parana window will be from 1:50 PM to 4:36 PM on July 11 while Hari Vasara will conclude at 10:32 AM on July 11.Gauna Yogini EkadashiSome devotees choose to observe Gauna Yogini Ekadashi a day later, on Saturday, July 11, 2026. The Gauna Parana window will be on July 12 from 5:32 AM to 8:18 AM. On this Parana day, the Dwadashi Tithi ends before sunrise.Significance of Yogini EkadashiWithin Sanatan Dharma, Yogini Ekadashi carries deep spiritual weight. As it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, devotees mark the day with strict fasting, prayer, and the chanting of sacred mantras. Tradition holds that a sincerely observed vrat purifies the body, mind, and soul alike.The fast is also considered a means of atonement — a way to seek forgiveness for past wrongdoing and steadily dissolve accumulated negative karma. Many followers believe that consistent observance of Ekadashi fasts brings them nearer to Baikuntha Dham, the eternal abode of Lord Vishnu. Beyond fasting, devotees typically spend the day in meditation, scripture reading, and repeating Vishnu's sacred names.Puja Rituals for Yogini EkadashiDevotees generally follow this sequence of rituals on the day:Rise during Brahma Muhurat, clean the home, and bathe before starting worship.Bathe using plain water only, avoiding soap or other cleansing products, in keeping with tradition.Set up an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu on a clean, dedicated altar.Light a diya with desi ghee, and offer flowers, garlands, sandalwood tilak, fruits, and sweets.Devote the day to chanting Vishnu's names, reading devotional scriptures, and staying calm and centered.Steer clear of tamasic foods, and follow the vrat in line with personal health and family customs.Vishnu Mantras for Yogini EkadashiWhile worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day, devotees commonly recite:Om Namo Bhagavate VasudevayaAchyutam Keshavam Krishna Damodaram Ram Narayanam Janaki VallabhamHare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare HareYogini Ekadashi 2026: FAQsWhen is Yogini Ekadashi in 2026?It falls on July 10, 2026, with some devotees observing Gauna Yogini Ekadashi on July 11, 2026.Which deity is worshipped on this day?Lord Vishnu is the primary deity worshipped on Yogini Ekadashi.What is the significance of Yogini Ekadashi?Devotees believe that observing the fast with devotion purifies the mind and soul, helps atone for past deeds, and invites the blessings of Lord Vishnu.Disclaimer: The dates, timings, and rituals mentioned in this article are based on Drik Panchang. Devotees are encouraged to follow the customs observed by their family or local temple, as practices may vary by region and tradition.