Nirjala Ekadashi: What To Do And What To Avoid
Muskan Kalra
Jun 05, 2025
Observe Complete Fasting (Nirjala = Without Water): Ideally, devotees abstain from food and water for 24 hours. Those with health issues can take fruits or light fasting foods with spiritual intent.
Avoid Food and Water (If Physically Able): The core essence of Nirjala Ekadashi is complete abstinence. Avoid grains, pulses, and non-veg even if partial fasting.
Wake Up Early & Take a Holy Bath: Bathing before sunrise is considered auspicious. A dip in a sacred river (if possible) is highly beneficial.
No Alcohol, Tobacco, or Addictive Substances: Consumption of any intoxicants is strictly forbidden.
Offer Prayers to Lord Vishnu: Chant Vishnu Sahasranama or read Bhagavad Gita. Light a diya (lamp) and offer tulsi leaves to the deity.
Don't Speak Harshly or Gossip: Maintain purity in speech and thoughts.
Practice Charity (Daan): Donating food, clothes, water, or essentials to the poor is encouraged. Giving a pot of water or a fan is symbolic of relief from summer heat.
Avoid Laziness and Sleep During the Day: Devote time to prayer, chanting, and spiritual activities instead. Read Next Story
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IC Markets MULAI SEKARANG Undo The day is also aligned with lunar cycles that affect human physiology, making fasting on this day not only spiritual but also beneficial to health, especially in promoting better digestion and mental clarity. What Makes Nirjala Ekadashi Special? Unlike other Ekadashis where one may consume fruits, milk, or water, Nirjala Ekadashi is unique for its strict austerity — no food, no water — for 24 hours. It is believed that those who are unable to observe all 24 Ekadashis in a year can observe just this one to gain the benefits of all. This Ekadashi is linked to Bhima, the mighty Pandava brother from the Mahabharata, who found it difficult to fast twice a month. Sage Vyasa advised him to observe just one Nirjala Ekadashi with full devotion and strictness, which would grant him the spiritual merit of all the other Ekadashis combined. Foods to Avoid on Ekadashi Ekadashi fasting comes with a clear set of dietary restrictions. The idea is to promote sattvic (pure) living, minimize indulgence, and enhance self-discipline. Here are the key foods that must be strictly avoided: Grains and Cereals Rice, wheat, lentils, barley, and any grain-based food (including roti, bread, and pasta) are strictly avoided. These are considered tamasic (promoting lethargy and dullness) and are believed to interfere with spiritual energy on Ekadashi. Beans and Pulses Legumes such as moong, chana, rajma, and urad dal are also forbidden. They are said to be harder to digest and considered impure (ashuddha) for this sacred day. Vegetables Like Onions and Garlic Onions and garlic, which are part of the tamasic and rajasic food categories, are also restricted as they are believed to increase agitation and impure thoughts. Spices and Additives Common additives like hing (asafoetida), baking soda, and certain preservatives are avoided because they are often processed with grains. 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Though Nirjala Ekadashi calls for a strict fast, those who are not able to do Nirjala fasting due to health reasons (especially the elderly, children, pregnant women, or those on medications) may follow a simple Ekadashi diet, excluding prohibited foods. Here's what's generally allowed: Root Vegetables Vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and arbi (colocasia) can be consumed, often cooked without turmeric or red chili powder. Use of rock salt (sendha namak) is preferred over iodized salt. Milk and Dairy Milk, curd, paneer, and buttermilk are allowed and are commonly consumed by those doing partial fasting. These foods provide nourishment and support physical endurance during the fast. Nuts and Dry Fruits Almonds, cashews, dates, raisins, and coconut can be eaten in moderation. They're energy-dense and keep you feeling full for longer hours. Sabudana and Kuttu Sabudana (tapioca pearls) and kuttu (buckwheat) are commonly used to make Ekadashi-special dishes like sabudana khichdi, kuttu paratha, or pakoras. Can't eat your food without snapping a picture first? Join our Food Photography Contest and stand a chance to win exciting prizes! Click HERE for details. Join our WhatsApp Food Community to discover delicious recipes, enjoy fascinating food stories, and stay updated with the latest food news! Click here One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
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