Parama Ekadashi 2023

Leaped month is also known as Adhika Masa and Ekadashi which falls during Krishna Paksha of Adhika Masam is known as Parama Ekadashi. Hence, no Lunar month is fixed to observe Parama Ekadashi fasting and it is decided based on leaped month. This Ekadashi is also known as Ashadha Adhika Masa Ekadashi.

Parana means breaking the fast. Ekadashi Parana is done after sunrise on next day of Ekadashi fast. It is necessary to do Parana within Dwadashi Tithi unless Dwadashi is over before sunrise. Not doing Parana within Dwadashi is similar to an offense.

Parana should not be done during Hari Vasara. One should wait for Hari Vasara to get over before breaking the fast. Hari Vasara is first one-fourth duration of Dwadashi Tithi. The most preferred time to break the fast is Pratahkal. One should avoid breaking the fast during Madhyana. If due to some reasons one is not able to break the fast during Pratahkal then one should do it after Madhyana.

At times, Ekadashi fasting is suggested on two consecutive days. It is advised that Smartha with family should observe fasting on the first day only. The alternate Ekadashi fasting, which is the second one, is suggested for Sanyasis, widows and for those who want Moksha. When alternate Ekadashi fasting is suggested for Smartha it coincides with Vaishnava Ekadashi fasting day.

Ekadashi fasting on both days is suggested for staunch devotees who seek for love and affection of Lord Vishnu.