Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Date
Shattila Ekadashi will be observed on Wednesday, 14 January 2026. This year, Shattila Ekadashi coincides with Makar Sankranti, making the day extremely rare and spiritually powerful.
The combination of Ekadashi Tithi and Makar Sankranti occurs after many years and is considered highly auspicious in Sanatan Dharma.
Why Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Is So Special
Shattila Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and derives its name from the word ‘Til’ (Sesame seeds). According to Hindu scriptures, Til was created by Lord Vishnu himself and holds immense spiritual and purifying power.
In 2026, Shattila Ekadashi falls on the same day as Makar Sankranti, when the Sun enters Makara Rashi (Capricorn). This transition of the Sun signifies positivity, spiritual growth, and the beginning of auspicious activities.
The rare coincidence of:
- Ekadashi Vrat (dedicated to Lord Vishnu)
- Makar Sankranti (Sun’s auspicious transition)
makes 14 January 2026 a day of double spiritual blessings.
Importance of Til (Sesame Seeds) on Shattila Ekadashi
Til plays a central role on Shattila Ekadashi. Scriptures mention that using Til on this day helps destroy sins, purify the body and soul, and bring prosperity.
Must-Do Til Rituals on Shattila Ekadashi
- Til Snan (Bath with Til)
Devotees should take a holy bath by mixing black sesame seeds (Til) in water. This bath is believed to remove past sins and negative energies. - Til Bhojan (Eating Til-based Food)
Consuming Til-based items such as Til laddoo, Til roti, or Til kheer is considered highly auspicious on this day. - Til Daan (Donation of Til)
Donating Til, clothes, food, or utensils to the needy brings divine blessings and pleases Lord Vishnu. - Til Deep Daan
Lighting a lamp using Til oil in the evening helps remove obstacles and brings peace and prosperity.
Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Significance
Observing Shattila Ekadashi Vrat with devotion is believed to:
- Destroy sins accumulated over many births
- Fulfill wishes and desires
- Bring health, wealth, and peace
- Grant liberation (Moksha)
It is said that devotees who observe this vrat with sincerity receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
Makar Sankranti and Its Spiritual Meaning
Makar Sankranti marks the end of Dakshinayan and the beginning of Uttarayan, the most auspicious period in Hindu tradition. Performing charity, bathing, fasting, and spiritual practices on this day yields manifold benefits.
When Makar Sankranti coincides with Shattila Ekadashi, the spiritual merit (Punya) gained becomes many times greater.
What to Do on 14 January 2026
- Observe Shattila Ekadashi Vrat
- Take Til Snan early in the morning
- Worship Lord Vishnu with Tulsi leaves
- Consume Til-based food
- Perform Til Daan and charity
- Chant Vishnu Mantras and Ekadashi Katha
Conclusion
Shattila Ekadashi 2026 on Makar Sankranti is a rare and highly auspicious occasion. The combined power of Ekadashi fasting, Til rituals, and Sun’s transition into Capricorn makes 14 January 2026 a spiritually transformative day.
Devotees should not miss this sacred opportunity to purify their body and soul, seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings, and invite prosperity, peace, and divine grace into their lives.
