Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the Hindu religion's most pious and spiritually significant fasting days. It is also known as Pandava Ekadashi or Bhimseni Ekadashi. A large number of devotees observe a strict waterless fast with great devotion, making it one of the most challenging rituals. By doing this, people try to eliminate their past mistakes and seek divine blessings from god. So, let’s talk more about the Nirjala Ekadashi fast, its story, rituals, significance, and more in detail.
What is Nirjala Ekadashi?
Nirjala Ekadashi is a rigorous fast in Hinduism. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. An overwhelming number of Hindus worldwide observe it on the Ekadashi tithi (11th lunar day) of Shukla Paksha (the waxing moon phase) in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. Remember, the word “ Nirjala” means “without water”. While observing this fast, devotees live without food and water for 24 hours.
As per Hindu scriptures ( such as Brahma Vaivarta Purana and Padma Puran), observing Nirjala Ekadashi is equal to fasting on all 24 Ekadashis (sacred fasting days). It lets people have spiritual benefits. They also have a path to Vaikuntha- Lord Vishnu’s divine home.
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As per Hindu scriptures ( such as Brahma Vaivarta Purana and Padma Puran), observing Nirjala Ekadashi is equal to fasting on all 24 Ekadashis (sacred fasting days). It lets people have spiritual benefits. They also have a path to Vaikuntha- Lord Vishnu’s divine home.
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When is Nirjala Ekadashi 2025?
As per the Hindu Panchang, Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 will take place on Friday, June 6, 2025.
Ekadashi Tithi Beginning Time- June 6, 2025, at 2:15 AM
Ekadashi Tithi End Time- June 7, 2025, at 4:47 AM
Parana (Breaking the Fast) Time- June 7, 2025, from 1:44 PM to 4:31 PM
Remember, the Nirjala Ekadashi fast is observed worldwide. Also, sunrise and sunset times differ globally. So, use a reliable Panchang to determine the exact timing for all these rituals, depending on the area you live in.
Remember, the Nirjala Ekadashi fast is observed worldwide. Also, sunrise and sunset times differ globally. So, use a reliable Panchang to determine the exact timing for all these rituals, depending on the area you live in.
The Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Katha
It is a pious story from the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, which highlights the importance of this fast. It revolves around Bhima. He was the second of the five Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. He was known as a big eater.
Despite his devotion to Lord Vishnu, Bhima often faced challenges in observing the twice-monthly Ekadashi fasts. He had unsatisfied hunger. His brothers, Sahadeva, Nakula, and Yudhishthira, and their wife Draupadi actively kept fasting on every Ekadashi. But Bhima was unable to do so. Therefore, he became sad. In search of a solution, he contacted Sage Vyasa, the writer of the Mahabharata and the grandfather of the Pandavas and the Kauravas.
He advised Bhima to observe Nirjala Ekadashi- the strictest of all Ekadashis. Devotees have to stay away from water and food for 24 hours. Vyasa narrated that keeping this single fast will let him have the spiritual merits of all 24 Ekadashis. Bhima observed fast with great zeal. He fainted from thirst and hunger. But, he revived himself with holy water from the Ganga and Tulsi leaves and completed the fast successfully.
Despite his devotion to Lord Vishnu, Bhima often faced challenges in observing the twice-monthly Ekadashi fasts. He had unsatisfied hunger. His brothers, Sahadeva, Nakula, and Yudhishthira, and their wife Draupadi actively kept fasting on every Ekadashi. But Bhima was unable to do so. Therefore, he became sad. In search of a solution, he contacted Sage Vyasa, the writer of the Mahabharata and the grandfather of the Pandavas and the Kauravas.
He advised Bhima to observe Nirjala Ekadashi- the strictest of all Ekadashis. Devotees have to stay away from water and food for 24 hours. Vyasa narrated that keeping this single fast will let him have the spiritual merits of all 24 Ekadashis. Bhima observed fast with great zeal. He fainted from thirst and hunger. But, he revived himself with holy water from the Ganga and Tulsi leaves and completed the fast successfully.
Lord Vishnu became happy with Bhima’s dedication. He blessed him. Since then, this day has been recognized as Pandava Bhima Ekadashi or Bhimseni Ekadashi. The story manifests the power of Nirjala Ekadashi. It states that with sincere devotion and adherence to the prescribed rules, individuals can purify themselves and get spiritual rewards.
The Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
There are many benefits of observing the Nirjala Ekadashi Fast. Here are some of them-
Divine Blessings
By observing fast, devotees get Lord Vishnu’s favor. It leads them to happiness, prosperity, and long life.
Spiritual Purification
The fast eliminates your previous and present wrong deeds. You get spiritual liberty.
Mental Discipline
This strict fast tests your ability to self-control and concentrate. It proves that you are mentally strong. You have good control over your mind and body.
Physical Detox- Observing this strict fast contributes to body purification.
Charity and Karma- Donating water, food, clothes, and other essentials to needy people on this day is considered auspicious. It will bring blessings to you and your family for many generations.
Attaining Moksha (Liberation)-
It is believed that observing Nirjala Ekadashi leads people closer to Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). But for this, right intention, pure actions, devotion to the god Vishnu, and detachment from material desires are important.
How to Observe the Nirjala Ekadashi Fast?
As stated earlier, the Nirjala Ekadashi is a strict fast. You need to stay away from food and water from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadash. So, by following some rules, you can easily observe the fast and perform all rituals comfortably.
Preparation (Day Before Ekadashi – Dashami)
You should know the exact tithi and Parana timings for your area. Check your body condition to see whether you can observe the fast or not.
Sandhyavandanam- Participate in the evening prayer ritual on the 10th day (Dashami) for the fast.
Sankalp (Vow)- You should take a vow in a temple or a pooja room to observe the fast with great enthusiasm. It helps get Lord Vishnu’s blessings.
On Nirjala Ekadashi Day
Morning Rituals-
You should wake up before sunrise, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. Clean the pooja and surrounding areas and decorate them with flowers.
- Place a Lord Vishnu statue in the Pooja room or Mandir. You can get it online from Cottage9. There are other idols of Vishnu also.
- Wash the statue with Panchamrita (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar) and water.
- Decorate it with royal clothes, flowers, and sandalwood paste.
- Offer a hand fan, tulsi leaves, fruits, sweets, and incense sticks.
- Light oil lamps, perform aarti, and chant mantras like Vishnu Sahasranama.
Complete Fast
- Stay away from food and water completely.
- If you can, observe Jagaran (night vigil), participate in bhajans or kirtans. Visiting a nearby Vishnu temple is also good.
Breaking the Fast (Parana – Dwadashi)
- On Dwadashi, you should wake up before sunrise, take a bath, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu.
- Break your fast within the Parana time (June 7, 2025, 1:44 PM to 4:31 PM) with fruits, milk, or soaked dry fruits.
- Distribute Prasad among devotees.
Conclusion
Nirjala Ekadashi is the perfect time to connect with Lord Vishnu, detox your body and soul, and gain spiritual freedom. It symbolizes the power of devotion and discipline. By following the above-mentioned recommendations, devotees can observe Nirjala Ekadashi 2025. It can change your life dramatically. It will bring peace, richness, and divine blessings of Lord Vishnu to your life. Cottage9 is the most sought-after hub for beautiful paintings and statues. Explore the product listings today & place your orders. We are always ready to process them faster & ensure their fast shipment to the specified address.
