🕉️ Bhisma Ekadashi 2026 – Festival Details

Date: 28 February 2026 (Saturday)
Tithi: Magha Shukla Ekadashi
Other Names:

• Jaya Ekadashi (Magha Shukla)
• Bhisma Ekadashi (in many regions)
• Bhisma Dwadashi (Next Day Parana Day)

Bhisma Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and associated with the final teachings of Bhisma Pitamah delivered on the bed of arrows during the Mahabharata war.

🌼 Significance of Bhisma Ekadashi

This Ekadashi has deep spiritual and historical importance:

• Bhishma Pitamah narrated the Vishnu Sahasranama to Yudhishthira on this day.
• It marks the period when Bhisma, blessed with Ichcha-Mrityu, awaited Uttarayana to leave his body.
• Observing this vrat brings protection, righteousness (dharma) and liberation from karmic sins.
• Devotees believe it grants success, peace, and prosperity.
• Vishnu Bhagwan blesses devotees with clarity, knowledge, and steadfastness.

It is one of the most powerful Vaishnava Ekadashi days of the year.

🪔 Bhisma Ekadashi Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step)

1. Morning Rituals

• Wake up during Brahma Muhurat
• Take a holy bath
• Clean the puja area

2. Sankalp (Resolution)

Declare your intention to observe Ekadashi vrat for spiritual cleansing & devotion.

3. Puja of Vishnu Bhagwan

• Place an idol or picture of Shri Hari Vishnu
• Offer tulsi leaves (very important)
• Offer yellow flowers, incense, diya
• Prepare Panchamrit
• Chant Vishnu’s mantras:
  “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
  “Om Namo Narayanaya”

4. Bhishma Puja

Many devotees also worship Bhisma Pitamah by offering:

• White flowers
• Water
• Prayers of gratitude for dharma & wisdom

5. Fasting Rules

Ekadashi fasting types:

• Nirjala (no food, no water) – toughest
• Phalahar (fruits, milk, coconut water)
• Satvik one-time meal – for those unable to do strict fasting

Do NOT eat grains, rice, wheat, pulses, or beans on Ekadashi.

6. Evening Puja

• Recite Vishnu Sahasranama (highly recommended)
• Perform Vishnu Aarti

7. Parana (Breaking the Fast)

Performed the next morning on Dwadashi after sunrise and within the prescribed Parana window.

(If you want, I can generate exact Parana timing for your city.)

📚 Bhisma Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Short Version)

When Yudhishthira asked Bhisma Pitamah about the greatest dharma of mankind, Bhisma revealed the power of the Vishnu Sahasranama.

He explained that chanting the thousand divine names of Vishnu removes all sins, fears, and sorrows. Bhisma narrated the stotra while lying on the bed of arrows. His discourse became the foundation of Bhisma Ekadashi tradition.

🌟 Benefits of Observing Bhisma Ekadashi

• Removal of sins & obstacles
• Karmic purification
• Blessings of Vishnu & Bhisma Pitamah
• Improved health, mental clarity
• Peace in family & relationships
• Fulfilment of wishes
• Protection from negative energies

🕒 General Timing Notes (City-wise timing available on request)

• Ekadashi Tithi Start: Varies by location
• Ekadashi Tithi End: Varies by location
• Parana: Next day after sunrise within the Dwadashi period

Tell me your city for the exact Panchang timings.

💬 FAQ – Bhisma Ekadashi 2026

1. When is Bhisma Ekadashi in 2026?

It is on 28 February 2026 (Saturday).

2. Why is Bhisma Ekadashi celebrated?

It commemorates the wisdom and teachings of Bhisma Pitamah, who narrated the Vishnu Sahasranama.

3. What should we not eat on Ekadashi?

Avoid grains, lentils, rice, wheat, beans, and heavy foods.

4. What is the best mantra for Ekadashi?

Vishnu Sahasranama, “Om Namo Narayanaya”, and “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.

5. When should Ekadashi fast be broken?

On Dwadashi, after sunrise, within the Parana time.

6. Is Bhisma Ekadashi good for health and mental peace?

Yes, fasting and chanting Vishnu Sahasranama bring clarity, calmness, and strength.