6 important things to know about Nirjala Ekadashi 2025
By Chaitanya Dhawan
Nirjala Ekadashi is considered the most sacred and rigorous of all Ekadashi fasts in the Hindu calendar.
Observed without food or water, this vrat falls during the peak of summer and is believed to offer the spiritual benefits of all 24 Ekadashis combined.
Wanda Maximoff
Nirjala Ekadashi is known for being the strictest of all 24 Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar. Devotees observe a complete fast without food and water, making it physically and spiritually intense.
1. The Most Rigorous Ekadashi Fast
The word Nirjala translates to 'without water' in Sanskrit. Unlike other Ekadashis, where water or fruits may be consumed, this fast is observed without even a sip of water for 24 hours.
2. 'Nirjala' Means 'Without Water'
In 2025, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on June 6, falling on the 11th day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, typically during extreme summer — making the waterless fast even more challenging.
3. Falls on Shukla Paksha Ekadashi in Jyeshtha Month
The origin of Nirjala Ekadashi is tied to Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers. Unable to observe all 24 Ekadashis, he was advised by Sage Vyasa to observe this one Ekadashi with full dedication to gain the virtue of all the others combined.
4. Associated With Bhima from Mahabharata
It is said that observing Nirjala Ekadashi with true devotion and discipline can wash away past sins and bestow salvation (moksha). The vrata is considered highly meritorious in Hindu dharma.
5. Believed To Wash Away All Sins
On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshipped with prayers, bhajans, and Tulsi leaves. Many people read the Vishnu Sahasranama and engage in acts of charity, especially donating water, clothes, and food to the poor.
6. Devotees Worship Lord Vishnu
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