For deceased ancestors. Liberates from hell.
Indira Ekadashi falls during Pitru Paksha, the fortnight set aside to remember our ancestors, which makes it special among the Ekadashis. It is kept not only for oneself but for the departed. The scriptures tell of King Indrasena, whose father had fallen into the realm of Yama. On the advice of the sage Narada, the king observed Indira Ekadashi and dedicated its merit to his father, who was then freed and rose to a higher world.
Because of this, Indira Ekadashi is believed to bring peace and liberation to departed ancestors when its merit is offered to them. Devotees fast, worship Lord Vishnu, recite his names, perform shradh and tarpan for the forefathers, and give food and charity in their memory. It is a tender day that joins devotion to Vishnu with love and gratitude for those who came before us.
Indira Ekadashi 2026 is on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, during Pitru Paksha. Parana is on Wednesday, 7 October 2026 after sunrise.
Falling in Pitru Paksha, Indira Ekadashi is believed to bring peace and liberation to departed ancestors when its merit is dedicated to them, as in the story of King Indrasena and his father.