The word "Papankusha" is derived from two Sanskrit terms: "Papa," which stands for 'sin', and "Ankusha," which means 'check or control.' Therefore, the Hindu Shastras consider that Papankusha Ekadashi is a day to control or eradicate sins. Observing this Ekadashi is thought to free individuals from the cycle of karma and provide them with an opportunity for redemption.
"Papankusha Ekadashi", a significant day in the Hindu calendar, holds deep spiritual importance for adherents of the faith. It falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Ashvin as per the Hindu calendar. That's why it's also known by the name "Ashwina-Shukla Ekadashi."
According to the Gregorian calendar, it falls in the month of either September or October.
This year, "Papankusha Ekadashi" is coming on the 3rd of October 2025.
As per Drik Panchang, the “tithi” for "Papankusha Ekadashi" in 2025 is as follows:
As "Papankusha Ekadashi" is dedicated to Lord Padmanabha (as mentioned in 'Archana Vidhi'), an incarnation of Shri Hari Vishnu, the devotees worship him on this day with flowers, betel leaves, diyas and incense sticks.
The name "Padmanabha" translates to "Lotus-Naveled" in Sanskrit, symbolising the lotus from which Lord Brahma, the creator, emerged, and highlighting Lord Vishnu's cosmic connection.
Being one of the principal deities in Hinduism, this deity is particularly venerated in the southern Indian state of Kerala.
On this Ekadashi, devotees fast for the entire day, abstaining from grains and other forbidden foods. This Vrat is a symbolic act of mind and soul purification. That's why it is believed that one who observes "Papankusha Ekadashi" sincerely is forgiven by the Almighty for past misdeeds and promotes spiritual awakening.
Observing this fast not only brings freedom from sins spanning three generations but also leads to salvation. Additionally, it is believed to counteract or completely remove the adverse effects of the moon.
At the end, the devotees perform "Parana" (the breaking of fast).
As per Drik Panchang, the "Parana timings" for "Papankusha Ekadashi" in 2025 are as follows:
On this day, people recite prayers and hymns to Lord Vishnu to strengthen their relationship with the divine. They also visit temples, meditate, and attend satsangs, or spiritual meetings, to ask for forgiveness and divine intervention.
During Papankusha Ekadashi, people also perform charitable deeds by donating food, clothes, and money.
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"Brahma Vaivarta Purana" mentions the utmost importance of this auspicious occasion of "Papankusha Ekadashi." It's believed Papankusha Ekadashi frees one from sins and provides salvation.
Many Hindu Shastras mention that reciting Lord Vishnu's name on this day is said to be as virtuous as visiting sacred places in Hinduism.
There's also a very strong belief that one who observes this Ekadashi dedicatedly won't have to face Yamraja, the Lord of Death and is destined to find a place at the divine feet of Shri Hari in Vaikunth Dham.
In simple terms, observing Papankusha Ekadashi with devotion is a way for the devotees to cleanse themselves from wrongdoings (Paap) and find spiritual peace in their life's journey.
In Hinduism, even Lord Krishna had told King Yudhishthira that fasting on Papankusha Ekadashi and praying to Lord Vishnu brings salvation.
Overall, this propitious festival of "Papankusha Ekadashi" blesses one with happiness, good health, satisfaction and immense wealth.
There's also a very great legend behind this divine day, which is as follows:
Once, there was a cruel hunter named Krodhana who lived on the Vindhyachal mountains. He was worried about what would happen to him when he got older after living a life of sin.
He wanted to be forgiven, so he went to see the wise Angira, who told him to fast on "Papankusha Ekadashi" during the month of Ashwin. Krodhana did the rituals and fast as the sage told him to, and Lord Vishnu blessed him. This freed him from his past sins and brought him to heaven. Since then, followers have been celebrating this Ekadashi to ask for forgiveness and spiritual freedom.
As per the Hindu Lunisolar Calendar, Papankusha Ekadashi will be observed on the 3rd of October 2025.
Yes, we worship the Padmanabha avatar of Shri Hari Vishnu on the sacred day of Papankusha Ekadashi.
The Hindu Shastras say that Papankusha Ekadashi frees one from all the wrongdoings (Paap) in this lifetime and provides a place in the lotus feet of the Almighty.
To observe a fast on Papankusha Ekadashi, the devotees need to consume Sattvic food only, abstaining from onion, garlic, and any non-veg items.
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