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