Jaipur, June 07, 2025.
Nirjala Ekadashi is regarded as one of the most significant and challenging fasts in the Hindu calendar. This year, it falls on June 6 and 7. On June 6, householders will observe the fast, while Vaishnav devotees will observe it on June 7.
This is the only Ekadashi in the year where both food and water are strictly prohibited, making it the most difficult among all 24 Ekadashis observed annually.
If a person observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast consumes water, even by mistake, the fast is considered broken and fruitless. Legend has it that even Bhimsen, one of the five Pandavas known for his immense appetite, observed this waterless fast. This is why Nirjala Ekadashi is also referred to as ‘Bhimaseni Ekadashi’.
It is believed that by observing this fast with full discipline and devotion to Lord Vishnu, one can wash away sins and attain salvation. In fact, scriptures suggest that even if someone does not observe any other fast throughout the year, keeping Nirjala Ekadashi once in a lifetime is equivalent to observing all 24 Ekadashis and grants entry to heaven.
