Vijaya Ekadashi

Vijaya (Vijayā) is the ekadashi of krishna paksha in the twelfth lunar month, Phalguna (February-March). The name comes from the Sanskrit "vijayā" — "the bestower of victory." Tradition connects the fast on this day with overcoming obstacles and difficult outward circumstances.

Place in the system

Ekadashi is the eleventh tithi of the lunar month. Vijaya falls eleventh in the dark half of Phalguna, immediately before Amalaki — the ekadashi of shukla paksha in the same month.

"Vijaya" in the Hindu tradition means "victory," "conquest." The Vijaya ekadashi is named so because tradition connects its fast with victory over outward obstacles in a hard but righteous cause.

Practical meaning

The Vijaya fast is favorable for overcoming obstacles, for endurance in hard circumstances, for success in a righteous cause. Tradition connects it with the idea that sincere prayer on this day gives the strength to overcome what seemed insurmountable.

The Vijaya background works through victory. It is a day on which tradition holds particular support for one going up against outward circumstances. This is a day to take up what calls for will.

The Vijaya fast is kept as on other ekadashis: without grain or legumes, with fruit, milk, and water.

In Indian folk practice Vijaya is a day on which devout Hindus often pray for help in a righteous cause and for the strength to overcome obstacles. It is one of the "victorious" ekadashis of the year.

In daily practice

Vijaya is a day for resolve. If you have a hard matter that calls for will, this day suits prayer for support and fasting.

Vijaya also suits charity for those fighting injustice. Support here works through your participation.

Vijaya also suits fasting: fruit, milk, water, light food. The fast here is a sign of a strength beyond the ordinary.

How much this day is yours is refined by Tara Bala. Vijaya sets a background of victory, and the personal layer shows how far it matches your circumstances today.