Nirjala Ekadashi is considered the most sacred and difficult of all the 24 Ekadashis in the Hindu lunar calendar. The name Nirjala means “without water,” and devotees keep a complete fast — without food or even a single drop of water — for an entire day to worship Lord Vishnu.
It is said that by observing Nirjala Ekadashi with faith, one can gain the spiritual merit of all other Ekadashis combined. This is why it is often called the King of Ekadashis. Many devotees believe that keeping this fast ensures freedom from sins, protection from untimely death, and blessings for a prosperous life.
Nirjala Ekadashi 2026: Date & Parana Timings
For 2026, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed as follows:
- Date: Thursday, 25 June 2026
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 06:12 PM on Wednesday, 24 June 2026
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 08:09 PM on Thursday, 25 June 2026
Parana (Breaking the Fast)
- Parana Time: Friday, 26 June 2026 — 05:47 AM to 08:28 AM
- Hari Vasara End Moment: 2:43 AM on 26 June 2026
Gauna Nirjala Ekadashi
In some regions, Gauna Nirjala Ekadashi is observed:
- Gauna Begins: 06:12 PM on Thursday, 25 June 2026
- Gauna Parana Time: Friday, 26 June 2026 — 08:09 PM
Note: Always break the fast after sunrise and before the end of Dwadashi tithi. Avoid breaking during Hari Vasara.
Mythological Background
The most famous legend of Nirjala Ekadashi is linked to Bhima, the second Pandava brother from the Mahabharata. Bhima loved food and found it impossible to fast twice a month like his brothers. Worried about missing the blessings of Ekadashi, he approached Sage Vyasa for advice. Vyasa instructed him to keep just one fast a year — Nirjala Ekadashi — but in its strictest form: without food or water for the whole day and night.
Bhima followed the instructions and received the blessings of Lord Vishnu, with the promise that this one fast would give him the benefit of all other Ekadashis.
Another belief connects Nirjala Ekadashi with Yamuna Devi, sister of Yama (the god of death). Worshipping Yamuna and Vishnu on this day is believed to wash away sins and ensure liberation after death.
Spiritual Importance
- Removes past sins and grants liberation (moksha).
- Brings protection, good health, and prosperity.
- Strengthens willpower and devotion.
- Grants the combined merit (punya) of all 24 Ekadashis.
- Encourages discipline, patience, and self-control.
Step-by-Step Puja Vidhi
Items Required
- Lord Vishnu idol or picture
- Tulsi leaves (holy basil)
- Yellow flowers, sandalwood paste
- Incense sticks, ghee lamp, conch
- Fruits and sweets for offering after Parana
- Copper or brass kalash (pot) filled with water
Morning Rituals
- Bath & Sankalp – Wake before sunrise, bathe, wear clean clothes, and make a vow (sankalp) to observe the fast with devotion.
- Altar Preparation – Clean the puja area, place Lord Vishnu’s idol/photo, and decorate with flowers.
- Kalash Sthapana – Fill the kalash with water, add mango leaves, and place a coconut on top.
- Invocation – Light a ghee lamp and incense. Chant Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya or recite the Vishnu Sahasranama.
- Tulsi Offering – Offer fresh Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu, as they are considered most dear to him.
- Aarti & Bhajans – Perform aarti and sing devotional hymns.
- Charity – Offer donations such as water pots, clothes, or grains to the poor (traditionally done after completing the fast).
- Night Vigil (Optional) – Some devotees stay awake at night, chanting Vishnu’s name and listening to devotional stories.
Rules for Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting
Do’s
- Prepare your body by drinking enough water and eating light meals the day before.
- Spend the day in prayer, chanting, and listening to religious discourses.
- Maintain peace of mind and avoid negative thoughts.
Don’ts
- Avoid food and water from sunrise on Ekadashi until Parana the next morning.
- Do not engage in harsh speech, gossip, or arguments.
- Avoid heavy physical activities to prevent dehydration.
Charity & Seva on Nirjala Ekadashi
Charity is an important part of this fast. Common offerings include:
- Matka Daan – Earthen pots filled with water.
- Clothes & Umbrellas – To help others in the summer heat.
- Food & Fruits – Distributed after the fast is broken.
- Financial Donations – To temples, cowsheds, or poor families.
It is believed that whatever is donated on this day multiplies in merit.
Want to know more about Festival & Vrata Guides
Regional Observances
- North India – Devotees worship Lord Vishnu and bathe in rivers like the Yamuna.
- South India – Vishnu temples such as Ranganathaswamy Temple hold special pujas.
- Nepal – Devotees take ritual baths in holy rivers like Bagmati and offer prayers to Vishnu.
Health Tips for Waterless Fasting
Nirjala Ekadashi falls during the hot summer months, so health precautions are important:
- Before the Fast – Drink plenty of water, coconut water, and eat hydrating fruits like watermelon and cucumber.
- During the Fast – Rest as much as possible, stay indoors, and avoid exposure to heat.
- Breaking the Fast – Begin with water or coconut water, then fruits, followed by light food like khichdi.
- Warning – People with health issues, pregnant women, and the elderly should avoid strict waterless fasting and instead observe a partial fast.
Benefits of Observing Nirjala Ekadashi
Spiritual Benefits
- Cleanses the soul of sins.
- Brings divine blessings and spiritual growth.
Physical Benefits
- Helps in detoxification when done mindfully.
- Improves self-control and mental discipline.
Emotional Benefits
- Builds inner strength and patience.
- Encourages compassion through charity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I brush my teeth on Nirjala Ekadashi?
Yes, but avoid swallowing any water.
Q2: Can I sleep during the day?
Traditionally, excessive sleeping is avoided; instead, spend time in prayer or listening to devotional songs.
Q3: What if I cannot complete the waterless fast?
You can observe a partial fast with water or fruits. Sincerity of devotion matters most.
Q4: Can pregnant women or sick people observe this fast?
No, it is not advised for those with health concerns.
Online Puja Options
For devotees unable to visit temples, several trusted platforms arrange online pujas:
- Satvik ePuja – Personalized Vishnu puja with live-streaming and prasad delivery.
- Utsav App – Book pujas in major Vishnu temples and watch live darshan.
- Hindu Mandir Puja – Virtual darshan and Vishnu Sahasranama recitation.
These services ensure you can still participate spiritually from anywhere.
Conclusion
Nirjala Ekadashi is not just a test of physical endurance, but also a powerful day for spiritual cleansing and deep devotion to Lord Vishnu. Whether you observe the complete waterless fast or a milder version due to health reasons, what truly counts is your sincerity, prayer, and acts of charity. By keeping this fast with a pure heart, you invite divine blessings, peace, and prosperity into your life.
