Ekadashi that occurs in the Shukla Paksha of Thai month is known as Jaya Ekadashi.

This year,

 Smartha Jaya Ekadashi falls on January 27 

Vaishnav Jaya Ekadashi falls on January 28.

Jaya Ekadashi is auspicious for worshipping both Lord Narayana and Lord Shiva.

Significance of Jaya Ekadashi

Narayana is the God worshipped on all Ekadashis. Jaya Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Shiva also as it falls in the month of Magha (thai) which is auspicious for Shiva puja.

Jaya Ekadashi is also known as ‘Bhoumi Ekadashi’ and ‘Bhishma Ekadashi’.

 It is said that Bhishma chose this day to leave this earth and reach the abode of God.

Bhishma also chanted Vishnu Sahasranamam on this day.

Bhoumi Ekadashi is celebrated in a grand manner in Orissa.

Story of Jaya Ekadashi

It is said that a Gandharva was singing in the gathering of Lord Indra and was not able to accomplish his task well since he missed his life partner. The irritated Indra cursed that the wife of the Gandharva would turn into a monster.

Despite his repeated pleadings, the Gandharva was sent out of the gathering and on coming home he found his better half in the form of a demon. On seeing his sad plight, Narada advised him to observe Jaya Ekadasi and the Gandharva got back his wife. Thus, this Ekadasi became popular among human beings.

Benefits of observing Jaya Ekadashi

One will get rid of his sins and seek salvation on taking Ekadashi vow on this day.

He will cherish more spiritual wisdom by the grace of Lord Narayana.

Observing Jaya Ekadasi vrata and doing Narayana and Shiva puja at home will surely lead one to salvation.

An account of Jaya Ekadashi is given in Padma Purana and Bhavishyothara Purana.