Varuthini Ekadashi 2026: Fasting Rules, Shubh Muhurat, Zodiac Sign Predictions and Remedies
Varuthini Ekadashi 2026 is a major fast observed in the Vedic calendar during Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon) in the month of Vaisakha (April – May).
The term “Varuthini” comes from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘armour’ or ‘protection’. As the name suggests, this Ekadashi is a fast for spiritual protection, believed to be a shield against evil, past sins, and bad luck.
According to scriptures, the merit earned from the fast is worth the equivalent of giving away gold to Kurukshetra at a solar eclipse, or 10 years of penance.
Varuthini Ekadashi is a day dedicated to worshipping Lord Vamana, the 5th avatar of Lord Vishnu. Unlike other fasting days that focus solely on abstaining from food, this Tithi emphasises disciplining both the mind and speech.
Those fasting on this day should avoid gossiping, lying, and anger; instead, they should engage in charitable acts and meditation. Those who complete the fast with pure devotion can expect their fortunes to change, and their homes and souls will experience abundance and peace.
Varuthini Ekadashi offers individuals a unique chance to clear their karma and start anew with God’s blessings, whether one seeks physical healing or spiritual growth.
Date & Time
To benefit fully from the fasting day, you must observe the Tithi and the Parana (breaking of the fast) at the correct time(s). The following are the key dates and times for Varuthini Ekadashi in 2026, according to the Vedic calendar, to observe the fast.
| Varuthini Ekadashi Date | Monday, 13 April 2026 |
| Ekadashi Tithi Begins | 01:16 AM on 13 April 2026 |
| Ekadashi Tithi Ends | 01:08 AM on 14 April 2026 |
| Parana (Fast Breaking) Time | 06:54 AM to 08:31 AM on 14 April 2026 |
| Hari Vasara End Moment | 06:54 AM on 14 April 2026 (The fast must only be broken after Hari Vasara concludes). |
Significance of This Tithi
Varuthini Ekadashi holds great significance for its ability to confer “Saubhagya” (good fortune). According to antiquated texts, both culturally and historically, many well-known kings, such as Mandhata and Dhundhumara, received liberation by following this particular fast.
In a contemporary sense, its relevance is evident in the meaning of “spiritual detox.” During a time when life moves at a rapid pace and stress is overwhelming, this particular Tithi allows individuals to observe 24 hours of restraint, simplicity, and focus. The process itself is not simply about staying hungry or a lack of food; rather, it pertains to the consumption of those thoughts which feed one’s spirit.
According to ancient texts, the specific “Daan” (donations) associated with Varuthini Ekadashi are considered extremely powerful. To donate water and food to the hungry and/or umbrellas, shoes, or sandals to needy persons during this time is said to be the highest form of charitable giving possible.
Read Also: Sun Transit in Aries 2026: 5 Zodiac Signs Set for a Massive Career Breakthrough
It is an ideal time to cleanse old karmic debts before the sun enters its exaltation sign. By following the rules associated with this Tithi, specifically avoidance of grains/pulses/honey-type foods, one aligns his/her body’s energy with that of the lunar cycle.
It is said that blessings received from Lord Vamana during this period can eliminate obstacles in one’s work and family life and serve as a “shield” against potential harm in the coming months.
Impact on Zodiac Signs
Aries (Mesha)
This Ekadashi compels you to suppress your natural aggressive impulses and focus on your inner stillness. Today is a good day to guard your energy from outside distractions, so avoid acting out in response to minor provocations from others.
Career: You may feel fretful about project delays, but this is not the time to use force; if you are patient, your career will be enhanced by how well you handle work pressures during this transit.
Finance: You can maintain financial security, with the stipulation that you do not make impulse purchases online or lend money to acquaintances. This is a great day to revisit any long-term insurance policy or savings plan.
Love: Today, your partner will need some extra emotional support, so be ready to listen patiently. Do not be too blunt in your communication, as today’s energy requires great compassion and gentleness.
Family: Your home life should remain stable, provided you do not make any unilateral decisions. Spend quality time with your elders and ask for their blessings to resolve any unspoken tensions at home.
Health: You may have some minor headaches or strained eyesight from overthinking, so make sure to get sufficient rest and cool down your surroundings to regulate your body heat from the inside out.
Key Advice: Practising mindfulness and “Mauna” (silence) for 1-2 hours will provide your mind with a shield from negative energy.
Remedies (Upay):
- Provide water to a person in need (mixed with a little amount of Ganga water).
- Donate red fruit or cloth to your local temple/dhyan.
- Recite “Achyutashtakan” to receive divine protection from obstacles in your life. Put a ghee lamp in the North-East corner of your house for good fortune.
Taurus (Vrishabha)
Today is a good day to take it easy and not worry about what you want materially. Today, your spiritual contentment will bring you more tranquillity than the comforts of physical things.
Career: You will make significant strides at work this week. Your boss will finally notice your consistent efforts and hard work. Today isn’t the day to make any major changes. Instead, it will be a day to polish the work you currently have.
Money: Your financial prospects continue to look strong, so if you have been searching for a way to invest your savings long-term, today could be your lucky day! However, do not purchase expensive items to break your fast today.
Love: Sharing your spiritual goals is a great way to strengthen your relationship with your partner. You will have a better chance of becoming intimate through a meaningful conversation than by exchanging gifts or showing affection in other ways.
Family: The energy at your home will be peaceful and spiritual. It will be a great day to do a small family ritual or Satyanarayan katha for the prosperity of your family.
Health: You may feel tired today, so to maintain spiritual purity from fasting, avoid napping during the day. Be sure to take care of your neck and throat by not consuming cold drinks.
Key Advice: Contentment is your superpower today; do not compare yourself to others; instead, be grateful for what you have today.
Remedies (Upay):
- Give white-grained foods (such as rice or sugar) to a needy woman.
- Place a small tilak of white sandalwood on your forehead. Nourish a white cow with rice and jaggery that has been soaked in water overnight (or for 12 hours).
- Keep a silver coin in your left pocket to improve your income stability.
Gemini (Mithuna)
Spend some time today researching religious literature or listening to spiritual podcasts. You are going to have a lot of intellectual energy, and your mind is going to be very sharp. You will be able to comprehend and understand highly advanced spiritual ideas today.
Career: Careers that require communication this week will experience success. A client will probably send you a nice email this week thanking you for your work. Do not start any new discussions about starting a company today or for the next two weeks. Instead, you should focus your energies on completing the paperwork that you have not yet completed.
Money: If you have old investments or dividends you are waiting to receive, you could receive those funds this week. This is an excellent week to decide how much of your paycheck to send to charity each month.
Love: Transparency is essential; share your inner thoughts and fears with your significant other to establish a bridge of trust. If you are a single Gemini, you will likely find someone who is peaceful and/or spiritual very attractive.
Family: A younger sibling may contact you for financial or emotional advice. Be a mentor to them and share your life experiences. They could use your guidance and support to help them deal with their difficulties.
Health: Your brain may feel fatigued or anxious today because you have been overthinking. Deep-breathing exercises, soothing bhajans, and similar practices will help calm your nervous system.
Key Advice: It is best to avoid engaging in idle gossip or negative discussions on social media. These activities will deplete the spiritual merit of the fast you are currently observing on Ekadashi.
Remedies (Upay):
- Give away a seasonal fruit, like musk melon or yellow mango, to a Brahmin
- Feed a cow with veg or grass
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama for the purpose of improving concentration
- Offer to the Vishnu temple an offering of green cardamom.
Cancer (Karka)
The Ekadashi festival acts as a temporary filter for your emotional state. It is the day of internal healing in which your soul longs for a deeper connection to the divine feminine energy.
Career: If you have been feeling pressured by the corporate lifestyle, now would be an excellent time to visualise how you would like your career path to look and set intentions for the coming Solar New Year in April.
Money: Your intuition regarding finances will be very good today; accept your feelings about future purchases as having validity. Small anonymous donations will be more fortunate than large public donations.
Love: You will find comfort with your spouse in silence and during prayers together. You will find that emotional vulnerability will yield lifelong loyalty from your spouse and increased respect for one another’s feelings.
Family: Your relationship with your mother or a maternal figure will provide you with much strength; seek her blessings and listen to her stories to connect with the earth.
Health: Emotional stress may manifest as heartburn or digestive problems; stick to light, liquid-based meals and avoid overexertion while fasting on this day.
Key Advice: Forgiveness is your greatest healing method today; by forgiving others, you will make room for new abundance to enter your life.
Remedies (Upay):
- Give a new umbrella or slippers to someone in need.
- Provide a Shivalingam with milk and sugar (expression of devotion).
- Provide a girl child with a small piece of sweets.
- Place a bowl of water next to your bed and pour it out & use it (to assist you when you awake) to water your plants each morning after you get up.
Leo (Simha)
This Tithi is challenging you to utilise your leadership abilities by setting them aside and serving humbly. By becoming a “Sevak” for the day, you will gain more credibility and more of a following than you ever would have gained through your use of force.
Career: You are going to receive recognition as a professional, but don’t get a big head about it. Remain grounded and continue to be a mentor for your team members by being kind to them instead of by using your authority within the company.
Money: Today is not a good day for high-risk investing or gambling in the stock market. This day is to protect the wealth you already have; it is not a day to try to increase it.
Love: You will have great success in your romantic relationship as long as you recognise and show appreciation for your partner’s efforts. A small personal note of “thank you” will mean much more to your partner than an expensive meal.
Family: Your children will look up to you for help in teaching them morals and traditions. Be an example to your children of discipline and kindness, so that they may follow in your footsteps as they grow up.
Health: You will have a great deal of physical energy; however, don’t overdo it. You should use your energy for spiritual “Jagran” (being awake through the night) or for long meditation.
Key Advice: Give over your ego to the divinity within you; to find true strength is to know when to bow obediently.
Remedies (Upay):
- Give 14 pounds of wheat or jaggery to a temple or community kitchen.
- Perform “Surya Arghya” with a copper vessel and red flowers.
- Feed a cow that is red-colored with wheat and sugar.
- Chant the “Aditya Hridaya Stotra” for career advancement and protection.
Virgo (Kanya)
Redirect your natural inclination to attain perfection in your spiritual activities today. By creating a clean, fragrant, and holy place for your prayers, you will more easily connect with Lord Vamana’s energy.
Career: Your attention to detail and precision will allow you to identify a huge oversight at work. You will be known as the one who handles crises calmly and logically.
Money: It is an excellent time to audit and plan your finances for the long term. You will discover ways to save on unnecessary subscriptions or expenditures that have previously been draining your finances.
Love: Your conversation with your partner should be uplifting and pleasant. Do not give in to the temptation to point out their flaws today; instead, concentrate on the goodness they contribute to your life.
Family: A family member may request your assistance with their health needs or other administrative tasks. Your willingness to help will be greatly appreciated and will strengthen the bond between you.
Health: You will have sensitive digestion today; adhere closely to fasting guidelines. Include Makhana or Sabudana in moderation to maintain steady energy levels.
Key Advice: Assisting others is your quickest way to attain spiritual merit today; look for someone in need and contribute your time or expertise.
Remedies (Upay):
- Donate green grass or moong dal to a cow (Gau Mata)
- Offer green cardamom or a yellow cloth to Vishnu
- Feed birds grain or water
- Chant the “Vishnu Sahasranama” with Tulsi mala
Libra (Tula)
This Ekadashi will help you balance your social obligations with your soul’s need for peace. Take time away from the crowd to rediscover who you truly are.
Career: There may be workplace conflict, but you will use your diplomacy to create a win-win situation for everyone involved. Stay neutral and avoid participating in office politics during this transit.
Money: Your financial inflow will be stable, and you may even receive an unexpected gift or monetary bonus from an unanticipated source. An auspicious day to help out at an orphanage/school.
Love: You and your partner will share peaceful, supportive romantic moments. Both of you will enjoy simple things you do together, such as gardening or listening to divine songs.
Family: You will play a peace-making role in a family argument over property or tradition. The elders of the home will appreciate your open-minded perspective.
Health: Pay special attention to your kidney function and be sure to drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours. Refrain from heavy lifting to protect your lower back.
Key Advice: The most important thing for your well-being right now is inner harmony; stop seeking others’ approval and focus on your spirit instead.
Remedies (Upay):
- Donate white clothing and/or a white blanket to a needy person.
- Offer white flowers and a ghee lamp to Goddess Lakshmi.
- Feed a white dog with milk.
- Apply a tilak of white sandalwood to your forehead/throat.
Scorpio (Vrishichaka)
You will have the opportunity to use deep spiritual alchemy to turn pain into power today. The energy of Varuthini Ekadashi will surround you with a protective shield of light to keep negative energies away.
Career: You will likely discover a secret or new piece of information that will give you the edge in your career. Keep this information confidential until you find the right time to act upon it.
Money: Funds from an inheritance, insurance, or a partner’s income are possible sources. A good day to clear any small, lingering debts that you’ve had at the back of your mind.
Love: Intense emotional conversations will lead to a breakthrough in your relationship with your partner. Don’t be afraid to share your deepest fears with your partner, because they are going to support you unconditionally.
Family: A past family issue may finally be resolved. Use your maturity as a mentor to handle the situation and avoid sudden anger.
Health: You will experience a surge of internal energy that can be written from “pranayama”. Avoid spicy or heavy foods, because your system is undergoing a complete cleanse.
Key Advice: Master your internal reactions; your silence today will have much greater power than any words you may say.
Remedies (Upay):
- On Tuesday, donate red lentils (masoor dal) or jaggery to a temple
- Feed a monkey with roasted grams and jaggery
- Light a lamp with mustard oil under a peepal tree in the late evening
- Recite the “Hanuman Chalisa” to vanquish unseen enemies.
Sagittarius (Dhanu)
Today is an excellent day for self-study and philosophical reflection because wisdom is your greatest asset; you have the answers to your life’s biggest questions within you.
Career: Those in education, law, or consulting will be feeling productive today, and your opinions will be sought after by those in higher positions, which should improve your reputation.
Money: Your financial outlook looks good, but it would be best to spend your money only on items that add value to your life; thus, a donation to a spiritual teacher or library is encouraged.
Love: You and your partner will be able to bond at a very deep intellectual level and discuss your dreams and spiritual beliefs together, leading to newfound excitement in your relationship.
Family: You will receive ancestral wisdom from elders that could be beneficial down the road; even though some of their beliefs may differ from yours, you should respect them, as many are traditional.
Health: In general, you have excellent health; however, try to avoid overeating during Parana, as you may experience liver or hip pain and disrupt your metabolic processes.
Key Advice: Try to stay focused on your “Big Picture” and do not let the small inconveniences of daily living bother you.
Remedies (Upay):
- Donate yellow-coloured sweets or clothes to your priest or teacher.
- Tied a yellow thread around the right wrist for protection.
- Put a tilak of turmeric and sandalwood on your forehead.
- Offer yellow flowers to Lord Vishnu and recite the Gajendra Moksha Path.
Capricorn (Makra)
Today’s Tithi encourages you to take a break from striving for new professional heights so your soul feels fulfilled. Prioritise your spiritual obligations over your professional successes.
Career: There is quite a bit of added pressure in your work life, and it would be easy to become distracted by your busy schedule and fast (if you are fasting). If possible, delegate your tasks and do not take on any additional responsibilities today.
Finance: You demonstrate financial stability through your disciplined behaviours; therefore, today would then be an excellent time to contribute to a cause/organisation that assists labourers or people who work in the construction industry.
Love: Your partner may feel neglected because of your busy schedule, so use this day to show them they are important to you by spending time with them in quiet or by doing a regular activity together.
Family: You may experience an increase in responsibilities related to your home or family members, but you will be able to demonstrate how efficiently you handle them. Please ensure that you do not bring any work-related stress into your home.
Health: Maintain a focus on the health of your bones and joints, and provide your body with enough calcium through “Phalahari” means. To help with any stiffness in your body, ensure that you stay hydrated.
Key Advice: Just as having a professional commitment requires consistency, so does having a spiritual commitment; both require focus to create positive behaviours.
Remedies (Upay):
- Donate black sesame seeds or items made of iron to those who are in need.
- Burn mustard oil in a small oil lamp and place it under a Shami tree in the evening.
Aquarius (Kumbha)
On this Ekadashi, open your mind to consider the collective community as a whole, not just yourself. You may notice that by serving others, you serve yourself, and your problems dissipate.
Career: Spend time alone and allow yourself time to think creatively. Do not be afraid to think of new ideas, as this creativity and individuality are what add value to your job and company.
Money: You will probably gain financially by being a part of social networks or larger organisations. Excellent opportunities may arise today for NGO members and those in social welfare, as you will have a much higher chance of obtaining financing.
Love: You will experience a sense of liberty in your relationship. Your partner will appreciate your unique, but sincere ways of showing your love and support.
Family: You may have discussions with family members on spirituality from a more modern aspect. You will need to be patient and thoroughly explain your reasoning behind your views without being defensive or condescending towards traditional beliefs.
Health: Watch your circulation, and foot and/or ankle health today. You may wish to perform some gentle stretching and/or elevate your feet while at rest to help you maintain your energy level.
Key Advice: To further your spiritual journey, you must be a servant to humanity, so find someone that you can support or assist today.
Remedies (Upay):
- Donate medicine or offer to assist an ill person with their health.
- Put out birdseed and/or water on your balcony or terrace to give to the birds.
- Light a Ghee lamp in a temple to pray for world peace.
- Chant Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya 108 times.
Pisces (Meena)
Since your sign is Jupiter-ruled, you will most likely feel the most peaceful state of being today, and you will feel more connected to the divine.
Career: Your creative and intuitive skills could be at their peak today. You should spend today working on creative projects; writing, planning your career, etc., with a clear and peaceful mind.
Money: You will receive monetary gifts in the usual ways and forms today. If you have received any assistance from a temple or spiritual teacher, you should offer a donation to them.
Love: If you feel a deep, unconditional love towards your partner today, today is the day for you both to forgive one another for past mistakes and start over with a new love.
Family: You will feel a holy presence in your home, and your family will be very supportive and connected to you in every way.
Health: You are likely to be in excellent health today. However, you should be careful of minor injuries to your feet or any other part of your body that may be bothering you. Meditating today will help you feel grounded and keep you from being too emotional.
Key Advice: Trust the way your things happen to you in your life; be happy and be in the present moment, because where you are is exactly where you are supposed to be.
Remedies (Upay):
- Offer a seeker of knowledge a religious reading material or honey,
- Offer yellow sweets and bananas to Lord Vishnu,
- Feed fish in a pond or river with balls of flour,
- Make a tilak with saffron and/or sandalwood on your forehead.
Varuthini Ekadashi 2026 is the perfect time to obtain Divine Protection and to cleanse your path for the future. By following the dates and information related to astrological signs, you will be provided with a prosperous and peaceful year ahead. Continue checking with Astro Zindagi for your personalised astrological advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can we eat fruits during Varuthini Ekadashi?
Fruits are permitted. If you have difficulty fasting full-time (Nirjala), you may still be able to eat fruit, milk, and nuts and try to adhere to a “Phalahari” diet instead.
Is it mandatory to stay awake all night (Jagran)?
While not a requirement, staying awake to chant the name of Lord Vishnu or read the Vishnu Sahasranama is considered the most beneficial and rewarding way to experience all the spiritual rewards of this Tithi.
What foods should be strictly avoided?
Completely restrict all grains (e.g. wheat, rice, maize), all pulses (e.g. daal), honey, and any food containing onion or garlic. Sea salt should also be avoided by most. Many people prefer using Sendha Namak (rock salt).
Can we shave or cut hair on this day?
According to ancient religious texts, it is advisable not to shave/cut any hair/nails on the Ekadashi Tithi. This is one of the rules of fasting.
What happens if I accidentally eat grain?
If you accidentally consume grain, do not fear. Immediately pray to Lord Vishnu; apologise and continue your fasting day with only water or fruits. Complete a small donation on the following day to atone for the error.
Why is “Hari Vasara” time important for Parana?
Hari Vasara is the first quarter of Dwadashi Tithi, and if you break your fast, you negate the benefit you derived from fasting. You must wait until the end of Hari Vasara to begin eating regular food again.
Who should not observe the Varuthini Ekadashi fast?
Young children, elderly persons with weakness, and persons suffering from serious illnesses should not observe a strict fast. Still, they may observe a partial fast and make charitable offerings to benefit from the occasion.