Nirjala Ekadashi

Fast this Nirjala Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadasi is one of the most popular and toughest Ekadashi Fasting days. Nirjala Ekadasi falls on the 9^th of June this year. It is also known as Pandav Bhim Ekadasi fast. Nirjala Ekadasi, or Pandav Bhim Ekadashi, is observed during the Jyeshta Shukla Paksha – waxing phase of moon in Jyeshta month, which falls during (May end or June beginning).

The Ekadasi fasting method for Nirjala Ekadashi is different from the usual practice. The difference from other Ekadasis and Nirjala is that devotees do not drink water or consume food on this day. Ekadasi fasting is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed on the 11th day of a fortnight in a traditional Hindu calendar.

The greatness of Nirjala Ekadasi was explained to Bhima, the second of the Pandava Brothers, by Sage Vyasa. Bhima wanted to observe Ekadasi fasting but still eat food. But fasting and eating was not possible. So Sage Vyasa advised Bhim to observe this fast which falls in the Jyeshta month as it has the benefits of observing all the 24 Ekadasis. Thus, Bhim was able to get the benefits of all Ekadasis by observing Nirjala Ekadasi.

Nirjala Ekadasi is one of the strictest fast in Hindu religion and among all Ekadasis. Nirjala means ‘without water.’ Vishnu devotees who undertake this fast do not drink water or consume food while fasting on this day. The fast begins on Ekadasi sunrise and ends on next day (Dwadasi) sunrise. 

It is believed that observing Nirjala Ekadashi equals to going on pilgrimage. It is believed that after death people who have observed Nirjala Ekadashi are received by messengers from Vaikunta, abode of Vishnu, and not by Yama, the god of death.  

Devotees spend the day at Vishnu temples or listening to stories from Bhagavad Purana or by chanting bhajans dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Vishnu Sahasranama and other sholkas dedicated to Lord Vishnu are chanted on the day. It is strongly advised that those who are under medications and have some ailments should not observe Nirjala Ekadasi. This fast also helps in cleansing the body.

Hindu pilgrims are planning a rendezvous with the mighty Ganga river, despite her water levels rising each passing day, on the auspicious occasion of Ganga Dussehra on June 8 and Nirjala Ekadashi on June 9.

Praise Lord Vishnu and Goddess Ganga by observing fast this Nirjala Ekadasi. You can know more about the vidhi vidhaan of Nirjala Ekadasi and buy worship items and spiritual products online for this holy day.