Nirjala Ekadashi 2024

Introduction to Nirjala Ekadasi

Ekadasi is the 11th day of the Moon’s lunar phase, and Nirjala Ekadasi falls in the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) in the month of Jyeshta (May–June). ‘Nirjala’ in Sanskrit, means without water. One who observes a fast on this day does not drink water, and this Ekadasi is considered most sacred of all Ekadasis. The day is known as “Pandava Nirjala Ekadasi” or “Pandava Bhima Ekadasi.”

Story of Nirjala Ekadasi

Nirjala Ekadasi, also known as Bhima Ekadasi, derives its name from the legend of Bhima, the second and the strongest among the five Pandavas in Mahabharata. According to Brahma Vaivarta Purana, Bhima being a great food lover, could not observe Ekadasi fast, while his four brothers, mother Kunti and wife Draupadi, strictly observed fast every month. He was afraid of dishonoring Lord Vishnu and hence, asked Sage Vyasa for a solution. The great sage advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadasi Vrat once a year so that he can obtain the combined benefits of all the 24 Ekadasis together.

Significance of Nirjala Ekadasi

Nirjala Ekadasi involves no drinking and no eating, and therefore, the toughest and the most sacred fasting followed by Vishnu devotees. This Ekadasi usually comes before monsoon season and hence, helps in detoxifying the body. One who cannot observe fast on the other 23 Ekadasis can observe Vrat on this day to gain their combined benefits.

Rituals of Nirjala Ekadasi Vrat

Vishnu devotees observe a strict fast on this day without consuming a drop of water or eating food. The fast begins at the sunrise of Ekadasi and ends at the dawn of Dwadasi (12th Moon). Since this Ekadasi falls in summer, one cannot abstain from water or food easily and hence, is considered the most sacred and toughest Vrat. People under medication or ailments observe a partial fast on this day.

Worshipping Lord Vishnu with Tulsi leaves, flowers, fruits, and sweets is the custom followed on this day. Further, the devotees read Vishnu Sahasranamam (1000 names of Vishnu) and chant Vedic Mantras throughout the night and stay awake in the devotion of Lord Vishnu. Donating food, clothes, and water to the poor and needy is considered noble on this Ekadasi.

Benefits of Nirjala Ekadasi Vrat

As per sacred texts, observing Nirjala Ekadasi Vrat can bestow the following blessings:

• Prosperity, longevity, wealth, and happiness.
• Relief from the cycle of birth and death and attain salvation.
• Considered more sacred than visiting pilgrimage sites.
• Help receive the benefits of all 24 Ekadasi Vrats.