Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on 25 June 2026, Thursday. As per Hindu tradition, it is one of the most sacred and important Ekadashis of the year and is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu.
Nirjala Ekadashi fast holds special importance among Sanatanis as it is believed that fasting on this sacred day is equal to fasting on all 24 Ekadashis that fall in a standard Hindu calendar year.
The word Nirjala means “without water.” On this day, many devotees live without food and water for 24 hours. Yet, the true purpose of Nirjala Ekadashi is not merely to endure hunger or thirst, but to move away from worldly distractions and spend time remembering Bhagwan Vishnu.
Many devotees also believe that observing Nirjala Ekadashi develops self-discipline, inner strength, and peace of mind.
The most popular story associated with Nirjala Ekadashi comes from the Mahabharata and is connected to Bhimsen (also known as Bheem), one of the five Pandava brothers.
According to Hindu tradition, all the Pandavas and Draupadi regularly observed every Ekadashi fast. But Bhimsen, despite being a devoted and loyal follower of Bhagwan Vishnu, was unable to do so because of his immense appetite. It was extremely tough for him to remain hungry for 24 hours straight (a whole day).
Worried about this, Bhimsen asked for a solution from Maharishi Ved Vyas. He expressed his desire to receive the blessings of Bhagwan Vishnu but also admitted that he was unable to do so because of his appetite. After hearing the whole situation, Maharishi Ved Vyas advised him to observe just one fast with complete dedication: Nirjala Ekadashi. He explained that observing this sacred vrat would grant him the spiritual merit of all the Ekadashi fasts observed throughout the year.
Following his guru's instructions, Bhimsen successfully observed the fast and received the blessings of Bhagwan Vishnu. Because of this story, Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as Bhim Ekadashi or Bhimseni Ekadashi.
On Nirjala Ekadashi, devotees wake up early during Brahma Muhurta, take a bath, and wear clean clothes before beginning the vrat.
Throughout the day, devotees worship Bhagwan Vishnu by offering Tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, fruits, incense, and a ghee diya. Many spend time chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya,” or reading Vishnu Sahasranama (1,000 names of Lord Vishnu).
A large number of devotees also visit Bhagwan Vishnu temples and participate in bhajans, kirtans, and satsangs. Some remain awake during the night and spend their time remembering Bhagwan Vishnu.
Devotees observing Nirjala Ekadashi generally follow these traditional vrat rules:
Follow the below-mentioned steps to worship Bhagwan Vishnu on Nirjala Ekadashi:
According to Hindu customs, no. However, senior citizens, expectant mothers, and those having some health concerns should consult their doctor before performing the vrat.
You can offer earthen pots, umbrellas, seasonal fruits, clothes, food grains, and other essentials to needy people.
Not necessarily, it depends upon your personal preference.
In case of health concerns or other reasons, if you are unable to complete the Nirjala Ekadashi vrat, there is nothing to worry about. Pray for forgiveness from Bhagwan Vishnu and if possible, continue fasting without consuming any grain throughout the day.