On Purushottami Ekadashi, do not make this mistake—even inadvertently—or else it could lead to ruin..
A distinct sense of enthusiasm is being observed among devotees regarding Purushottami Ekadashi. It is believed that this particular Ekadashi, which occurs during *Malmas* (the intercalary month), yields rewards a thousandfold. This year, Purushottami Ekadashi falls on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. According to religious beliefs, observing a fast on this Ekadashi leads to the eradication of sins and the attainment of happiness and prosperity. However, most people are unaware that observing the Ekadashi fast on the correct date and according to the prescribed rituals is considered essential. Religious scriptures advise against observing an Ekadashi that is *Dashami-viddha* (tainted by the previous day, Dashami) and recommend observing one that is *Dwadashi-yukta* (conjoined with the following day, Dwadashi).
**Avoid *Dashami-viddha* Ekadashi**
Mahant Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya explains that one should not observe an Ekadashi that is *Dashami-viddha*. In the *Mahabharata*, Gandhari observed the earlier fast—specifically the *Dashami-viddha* Ekadashi—which subsequently led to the destruction of her one hundred sons. Therefore, one should always observe the fast on the *Dwadashi-yukta* Ekadashi. Very few people possess accurate knowledge regarding this distinction; consequently, people often mistakenly observe the fast on the earlier day, whereas the scriptures explicitly declare the Ekadashi conjoined with Dwadashi to be the superior choice.
Mahant Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya further explains that Lord Krishna has bestowed His own name upon the month of *Purushottam*. Hence, it is known as *Purushottam Mas* (the Month of Purushottam). The spiritual merits derived from fasts, penance, acts of charity, and worship performed during this month are multiplied manifold. Whether it involves donating 33 *Malpuas* (sweet pancakes), performing a *Yajna* (sacrificial ritual), or observing a fast, the spiritual merit accrued during this month is considered to be a thousand times greater. It is for this very reason that the significance of Purushottami Ekadashi is heightened even further.
**The Underlying Beliefs**
Mahant Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya notes that this Ekadashi is also referred to as *Padmini Ekadashi*. It is believed that Padmini, the daughter of King Harishchandra, observed this fast, which subsequently blessed her with the birth of a son. Due to Lord Krishna's epithet "Purushottam," this occasion is also known as Purushottami Ekadashi. Many people also recognize it by the name *Kamala Ekadashi*. Both of the Ekadashis that occur during the month of *Malmas* are considered to be immensely spiritually fruitful. Benefits of Observing the Ekadashi Fast