Nirjala Ekadashi, also known as Pandava Ekadashi or Bhima Ekadashi, is considered the most sacred and powerful of all 24 Ekadashis in the Hindu year. Derived from the word 'Nir' (without) and 'Jala' (water), this Vrat involves a complete fast from both food and water for 24 hours. According to the Puranas, observing this single fast provides the same spiritual merit as observing all other Ekadashis combined.
2026 Key Dates and Fasting Timings
Nirjala Ekadashi falls during the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Jyeshtha. In 2026, the timings are as follows:
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Nirjala Ekadashi Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
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Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 06:12 PM on June 24, 2026
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Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 08:09 PM on June 25, 2026
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Vrat Parana (Time to break fast): 05:25 AM to 08:13 AM on Friday, June 26, 2026
Note: The fast begins at sunrise on Thursday and must be maintained until the Parana time on Friday morning.
The Legend of Bhima: Why It Is Called Bhima Ekadashi
The significance of this fast was explained by Sage Vyasa to Bhima, the second Pandava brother. Bhima, known for his enormous appetite, found it impossible to observe the twice-monthly Ekadashi fasts. He sought a way to achieve the same spiritual benefits without fasting every fortnight.
Sage Vyasa advised him to observe the Nirjala Ekadashi once a year. By abstaining from even water during this specific day, Bhima was promised the merits of all 24 Ekadashis, ensuring his path to Vaikuntha (the abode of Lord Vishnu).
Strict Vrat Rules and Puja Vidhi
Because Nirjala Ekadashi falls during the peak of summer, the fast is an ultimate test of endurance and devotion.
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Preparation (Dashami): On the day before the fast (Wednesday, June 24), devotees should eat a light, grain-free meal before sunset.
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The Fasting Period: From sunrise on Thursday until sunrise on Friday, no food or water should be consumed.
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Worship of Lord Vishnu: Perform a ritual bath in the morning. Offer yellow flowers, fruits, and Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu. Chanting the "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" mantra is highly recommended throughout the day.
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Jagran (Vigil): Devotees are encouraged to stay awake during the night of Ekadashi, engaging in bhajans, kirtans, and reading the Vishnu Sahasranama.
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Breaking the Fast (Parana): On Friday morning, after bathing and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, the fast should be broken within the prescribed Muhurat. It is traditional to first offer water and food to a Brahmin or the needy before consuming water yourself.
Essential Samagri and Charity (Dana)
Charity performed on Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to yield inexhaustible rewards.
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Offerings for Puja: Yellow sandalwood, Incense, Ghee lamp, and seasonal fruits like Melons or Mangoes.
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Items for Donation: Since the fast occurs in the summer, donating items that provide relief from heat is traditional. This includes earthen water pots (Matka), hand fans, umbrellas, and clothes.
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Water Charity: Setting up 'Pyaos' (drinking water stations) for travelers and animals is considered the highest form of 'Sewa' on this day.
Important Health Precaution
While Nirjala Ekadashi is spiritually significant, it is a physically demanding fast.
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Exemptions: Pregnant women, children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying medical conditions (especially those requiring regular medication) should not observe the waterless fast.
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Alternative: Such individuals may observe a partial fast by consuming fruits and water (Phalahar), focusing instead on prayer and charity.
इस आर्टिकल को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहां क्लिक करें