Nirjala
Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the
Jyeshtha month as per the Hindu lunar calendar. It is also known as Pandav
Bhim Ekadashi due to its association with Bhima from the Mahabharata.
Unlike other Ekadashi vrats, where devotees can drink water, Nirjala
Ekadashi is observed without even a sip, making it the strictest of
all.
Legend
from the Mahabharata
- Kunti, Draupadi, and the Pandavas
regularly observed Ekadashi fasting.
- Bhima,
the second Pandava, struggled to control his hunger and approached Sage
Ved Vyasa for guidance.
- Vyasa advised Bhima
to observe Nirjala Ekadashi, which grants the same blessings as observing
all 24 Ekadashi fasts in a year.
- Due to its intense spiritual
benefits, it is considered equivalent to a pilgrimage for
devotees.
Observance
& Rituals
- Complete Fasting
– Devotees refrain from food and water from sunrise to the next day’s
sunrise.
- Temple Visits & Worship
– People spend the day at Vishnu temples, listening to Bhagavad
Purana and chanting hymns.
- Charity & Donations
– Those unable to fast, including pregnant women, people with health
conditions, and the elderly, compensate by donating food and clothes
to the needy.
Spiritual
Benefits
Observing
Nirjala Ekadashi vrat is believed to bring prosperity, health, and
moksha (liberation). It is said to erase past sins and grant Lord
Vishnu’s eternal blessings.
2026 Date: June 25