Shattila Ekadashi is an important Ekadashi vrat observed during Magha Krishna Paksha, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and strongly associated with til (sesame seeds). In Vedic astrology, this Ekadashi is considered highly effective for karmic cleansing, Saturn-related remedies, and ancestral peace (Pitru Shanti).

Observed annually in January, Shattila Ekadashi holds both spiritual and astrological relevance. The vrat emphasizes discipline, charity, and restraint qualities linked with balancing heavy planetary influences such as Shani (Saturn). For householders and working professionals alike, this Ekadashi offers a practical method to align daily actions with cosmic rhythms without extreme rituals or superstition.

Shattila Ekadashi 2026 Date & Tithi (IST)

As per Drik Panchang, the authentic and widely followed Vedic calendar:

  • Shattila Ekadashi Date: Wednesday, 14 January 2026

  • Paksha: Magha Krishna Paksha

  • Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 13 January 2026 at 3:17 PM IST

  • Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 14 January 2026 at 5:52 PM IST

  • Parana (Fast Breaking): Thursday, 15 January 2026

    • Parana Time: 7:15 AM to 9:21 AM IST

  • Dwadashi Tithi Ends: 15 January 2026 at 8:16 PM IST

Ekadashi vrat is observed on the day when Ekadashi tithi prevails at sunrise, hence Shattila Ekadashi is observed on 14 January 2026.

Astrological Significance of Shattila Ekadashi

Planetary Influence

From an astrological perspective, Shattila Ekadashi is closely linked to:

  • Saturn (Shani): Discipline, karma, delay, responsibility

  • Pitru Tattva: Ancestral karmas activated during Magha month

  • Krishna Paksha Energy: Introspection, release, purification

Sesame seeds (til) are traditionally associated with Shani and Pitru dosha remedies, making this Ekadashi suitable for reducing long-term stagnation and mental heaviness.

Zodiac Signs That Benefit Strongly

  • Capricorn & Aquarius: Saturn-ruled signs gain clarity and emotional grounding

  • Cancer: Relief from emotional and ancestral burdens

  • Virgo: Improved focus, health awareness, and work balance

However, Shattila Ekadashi is beneficial for all zodiac signs, as it works on karmic rather than predictive astrology.

Shattila Ekadashi Puja Vidhi (Simple & Authentic)

The puja centers on Lord Vishnu with sesame as the primary offering.

Step-by-Step Puja Vidhi

  • Wake up before sunrise and take a bath (til-mixed water if possible)

  • Clean the puja space and place a Vishnu idol or image

  • Light a sesame oil diya

  • Offer:

    • Black or white sesame seeds

    • Til laddoo or simple til prasad

    • Tulsi leaves

  • Chant Vishnu mantras or Vishnu Sahasranama

Traditional Reference

“तिलैः स्नानं तिलैः होमं तिलैः दानं च केशव”

This verse highlights that using sesame for bath, donation, and worship helps neutralize accumulated karmic impressions.

Fasting Rules & Practical Observance

Shattila Ekadashi fasting can be adapted based on age, health, and work routine.

Types of Fasting

  • Nirjala Vrat: Complete fast (optional, advanced practitioners)

  • Phalahar: Fruits, milk, nuts

  • Til-Based Intake: Sesame sweets, roasted til, warm water

What to Avoid

  • Rice, grains, onion, garlic

  • Alcohol and non-vegetarian food

  • Arguments, harsh speech, excess screen usage

Planetary Benefits & Astrological Remedies

Key Benefits

  • Softens restrictive Saturn influence

  • Supports Pitru Shanti during Magha month

  • Improves discipline, patience, and focus

  • Encourages mindful financial and life decisions

Easy Remedies on Shattila Ekadashi

  • Donate black sesame seeds, warm clothes, or food

  • Feed cows, birds, or the needy with til-based offerings

  • Light a sesame oil lamp after sunset

These remedies are rooted in traditional karmic logic, charity and restraint reduce karmic load rather than “cancel fate.”

Modern-Day Relevance

In a contemporary lifestyle, Shattila Ekadashi works as a mental and physical reset. Light fasting aids digestion, while charity cultivates emotional balance. Astrologically, it aligns personal effort with Saturn’s demand for responsibility rather than fear.

Conclusion

Shattila Ekadashi 2026, observed on 14 January, provides a grounded approach to spiritual and astrological balance. With accurate tithi observance, simple puja, and mindful charity, this Ekadashi helps individuals realign with karmic discipline rather than expecting instant results.

Its true strength lies in simplification, accountability, and gratitude- values that remain relevant beyond rituals. Even minimal observance with awareness can bring clarity and steadiness into daily life.