Vrata
Ekadashi Vrata
A fasting observance kept on the eleventh lunar day (Ekadashi) of both the bright and dark fortnights of every lunar month, dedicated to Vishnu. There are usually 24 Ekadashis a year (26 in a year with an extra lunar month), each with its own name and mythological significance (such as Nirjala, Devshayani, Mokshada Ekadashi).
Rules
On Ekadashi, grains and cereal-based foods are avoided, keeping a fast on fruits, dairy products, or a complete waterless fast (according to the devotee's capacity). The fast is broken (parana) the following day, on Dwadashi, after sunrise.
Benefits
Practitioners believe it purifies mind and body, teaches sense-restraint, and aids spiritual progress. Puranas note that observing certain Ekadashis, such as Nirjala Ekadashi, yields the same merit as observing every Ekadashi of the year.