Ekadashi is the 11th day of each lunar fortnight, occurring twice a month (once in Shukla and once in Krishna Paksha), totaling 24 Ekadashis per year. It is considered the most important fasting day in Vaishnavism (Vishnu worship). Each Ekadashi has a unique name and story — Nirjala Ekadashi (strictest fast, no water), Devshayani Ekadashi (Vishnu's cosmic sleep begins), Prabodhini Ekadashi (Vishnu awakens), and Vaikuntha Ekadashi (gates of Vaikuntha/heaven open). Fasting rules range from complete abstinence to consuming only fruits, milk, and specific grains. The Padma Purana describes that observing Ekadashi Vrat destroys sins and leads to Vaikuntha (Vishnu's abode). Breaking the fast (Parana) is done during a specific time window on Dwadashi (12th day).