Mohini Ekadashi 2025: Date, Significance, Rituals & Spiritual Benefits

Introduction

Mohini Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually significant fasting days in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Vishnu—the preserver of the universe. Observed on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the Shukla Paksha in the Vaishakha month (April-May), this sacred day is celebrated with deep reverence and faith across India and by Hindus worldwide.
The word “Mohini” refers to the divine, enchantingly beautiful feminine form that Lord Vishnu assumed to protect dharma and defeat the forces of evil through divine strategy rather than war. Hence, this Ekadashi holds immense importance not just in terms of ritual fasting but also for the inner transformation it inspires. It is a day of surrender, reflection, and reconnecting with one's spiritual essence.
In 2025, Mohini Ekadashi falls on Thursday, May 8. The observance of this fast is believed to cleanse one's karma, dissolve illusions (Maya), grant peace of mind, and open the path to Moksha (liberation).

This blog covers:

 Date & Muhurat for 2025
Mythological Story & Significance
Fasting Rules & Food Guidelines
Puja Vidhi & Mantras
Benefits of Observing Mohini Ekadashi

1. Mohini Ekadashi 2025: Date & Timings

Ekadashi Tithi Begins: May 7, 2025 (Night)
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: May 8, 2025 (Night)
Best Time for Puja & Fasting: Morning hours between 7 AM and 10 AM
Parana (Breaking Fast) Time: May 9, 2025, after sunrise (6:30 AM onwards)
Note: Panchang timings may vary by location. It’s advised to consult your local calendar or astrologer.

2. The Legend of Mohini Ekadashi

The tale of Mohini Ekadashi is primarily found in the Padma Purana and is deeply tied to the cosmic event known as Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean). During this time, the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) joined forces to churn the ocean in pursuit of Amrit, the nectar of immortality. As the nectar surfaced, a fierce conflict broke out between the two factions over its ownership.
To protect the divine balance, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Mohini, a mesmerizing celestial woman. The Asuras, captivated by her divine charm, agreed to let her distribute the nectar. Mohini skillfully served Amrit only to the Devas, thereby restoring balance and cosmic order. This divine strategy signifies how Dharma sometimes requires not brute force, but wisdom and illusion to succeed.
Another profound story revolves around King Dhundhumara, a noble ruler who suffered from a terrifying curse due to sins from a past life. He approached Sage Vasishta, who advised him to observe Mohini Ekadashi with unwavering devotion. The king followed the prescribed rituals and fasted with sincerity. Eventually, he was freed from the curse, and his life regained joy and prosperity.
Together, these legends demonstrate the power of Bhakti (devotion), the importance of spiritual discipline, and how this sacred day is a gateway to inner clarity, divine grace, and karmic release.

3. Spiritual Significance & Benefits

Observing Mohini Ekadashi offers numerous physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. This Ekadashi is not merely about food restrictions but about spiritual purification and connection with the divine.
✔ Karmic Cleansing – Helps wash away sins of this and previous lifetimes.
✔ Inner Peace – Brings calmness of mind, stability in relationships, and mental clarity.
✔ Moksha (Liberation) – Frees not only the individual but also grants peace to one's ancestors.
✔ Fulfillment of Desires – Sincere prayers and disciplined fasting often lead to wish fulfillment.
✔ Protection from Illusions (Maya) – Frees the devotee from worldly attachments, delusions, and confusions.
✔ Enhanced Devotion – Deepens one's connection to Lord Vishnu and strengthens spiritual resolve.
For many, this fast is also a way of realigning themselves with their higher purpose, seeking direction, or praying for breakthroughs in personal and spiritual life.

4. Fasting Rules & Food Guidelines

Mohini Ekadashi fasting emphasizes purity in thought, action, and diet. Devotees refrain from indulging in tamasic foods and instead adopt a sattvic lifestyle for the day.
What to Eat?
Fresh fruits: Bananas, apples, berries, pomegranates
Dairy: Milk, yogurt (curd), paneer
Fasting flours: Sabudana (tapioca), Singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour), Rajgira (amaranth)
Vegetables: Potatoes and sweet potatoes (boiled or lightly prepared)
Rock salt (Sendha Namak)
Dry fruits and nuts: Almonds, raisins, dates, cashews
What to Avoid?

Grains: Rice, wheat, lentils, pulses
Non-vegetarian food and eggs
Onion, garlic, and mushrooms
Alcohol and any form of intoxicants
Fried, oily, and overly spicy food

Note: Those who are elderly, sick, pregnant, or unable to fast fully may consume one sattvic meal (without grains and tamasic ingredients). Hydration is also important—drink water or milk unless on a nirjala (waterless) fast.

5. How to Perform Mohini Ekadashi Puja? (Simple Steps)

Performing the puja with a pure heart and clean surroundings is key. Even a simple ritual performed with faith is as effective as a grand one.
Morning Ritual: Wake up before sunrise, take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
Altar Preparation: Clean the worship space and set up Lord Vishnu’s idol or picture.
Offerings: Present Tulsi leaves, seasonal fruits, flowers, incense, and ghee diya.
Chant Mantras:

"Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" – 108 times
"Om Vishnave Namah" – repeatedly throughout the day
Read Katha: Recite or listen to the Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
Meditation: Spend a few moments meditating on Lord Vishnu’s divine form.
Charity: End the day by donating food, clothes, or money to the needy or to a Vishnu temple.

6. When & How to Break the Fast (Parana)?

Breaking the fast (Parana) should be done with care and in accordance with the correct time.
Parana Guidelines:

Date: May 9, 2025 (Dwadashi Tithi)
Time: After 6:30 AM (post-sunrise)
Begin with consuming water, followed by fruits or milk.
Avoid immediately eating grains or heavy/oily meals.
Maintain a grateful and meditative mood while ending the fast.

Breaking the fast at the correct time is considered essential to receive the full benefits of Ekadashi.

7. Why is Charity Important on Mohini Ekadashi?

Charity is a vital aspect of Mohini Ekadashi as it multiplies the spiritual fruits of the fast.
Types of Charity (Daan):
✔ Annadan (Food Donation): Removes poverty and brings abundance
✔ Vastradan (Clothes Donation): Symbolizes purity and brings comfort to the less fortunate
✔ Gau Daan (Cow Donation): Considered the highest form of charity, granting Moksha
✔ Dakshina to Brahmins or Temples: Strengthens spiritual connections and clears karmic debts
Performing charity with love and humility not only benefits the recipient but also purifies the giver’s soul.

Conclusion

Mohini Ekadashi is much more than a day of ritual fasting—it is a divine opportunity to pause, reflect, and align oneself with higher truths. Whether one seeks peace, prosperity, or liberation, this day offers a spiritually charged path to achieve it all. By dedicating time for prayer, following a disciplined fast, and serving the needy, devotees can experience transformation on both outer and inner levels.
May Lord Vishnu bless you with health, happiness, and divine grace on this sacred occasion of Mohini Ekadashi!

FAQs on Mohini Ekadashi

Q1. Can pregnant women observe Mohini Ekadashi fast?
A: Yes, but they should opt for a partial fast (fruits & milk).
Q2. What if I forget to break the fast on Dwadashi?
A: Consult a priest, but generally, breaking it the next day is acceptable.
Q3. Which Vishnu avatar is worshipped on Mohini Ekadashi?
A: Lord Vishnu’s Mohini form is specially worshipped.