Prabodhini Ekadashi is also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi.
Parana must be done on Dwadashi Tithi after sunrise.
Avoid breaking the fast during Hari Vasara.
Smarthas should fast on the first day only.
Observant devotees fast on both days.
Details
Prabodhini Ekadashi, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi or Devutthana Ekadashi, marks the end of the four-month Chaturmas period during which Lord Vishnu is believed to be asleep. Observed on the eleventh lunar day (Ekadashi) of Shukla Paksha in the Kartik month, this sacred day signifies the awakening of Lord Vishnu. It is considered an auspicious time to begin new ventures, marriages, and religious activities. The day holds high spiritual value and is marked by rituals, fasting, and devotion.
The fast is broken the next day through a ritual called Parana. This must be done within Dwadashi Tithi, preferably during the early morning hours (Pratahkal), and never during Hari Vasara, which is the first quarter of Dwadashi. If morning is missed, the fast should be broken after Madhyahna. Fasting on Ekadashi may be observed on two consecutive days in certain years. For householders (Smarthas), fasting on the first day is recommended, while monks, widows, or those seeking liberation (moksha) may observe the fast on the second day—coinciding with Vaishnava Ekadashi.
Devout followers sometimes fast on both days to express deeper dedication to Lord Vishnu. Dev Uthani Ekadashi is also associated with the symbolic ritual of waking Lord Vishnu from his cosmic slumber. The occasion is celebrated with devotional singing, Tulsi Vivah (symbolic wedding of Tulsi and Vishnu), and night-long vigils in temples, especially in Vaishnavite communities.
