Nirjala Ekadashi, also known as Pandava Ekadashi or Bhima Ekadashi, is the most sacred of the 24 Ekadashis observed in a year. Herein, the word Nirjala means ‘without water’, implying the practice of observing the fast without food and even a drop of water, which certainly makes it the most challenging Ekadashi fast.
But it is as fruitful as it is challenging for all those who observe it with full devotion and faith. In today’s blog, we will learn more about Nirjala Ekadashi 2025, getting more insights on important dates, timings, significance, and rituals for the day.
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025: Important Dates & Timings
Nirjala Ekadashi vrat is observed on the Ekadashi (11th day) date of the Shukla paksha of Jyestha month. Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 will be observed on the 6th of June this year.
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Event |
Date & Day |
Time |
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Ekadashi Tithi Begins |
6th June, 2025 (Friday) |
02:15 AM |
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Ekadashi Tithi Ends |
7th June, 2025 (Saturday) |
04:47 AM |
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Parana Time |
7th June, 2025 (Saturday) |
01:44 PM to 04:31 PM |
Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi fasting is said to wash away all the sins of the observer and give the person endless blessings of happiness and prosperity. The ancient texts of Markandeya Purana and Vishnu Purana describe the day of Ekadashi as a form of Vishnu himself. That is why it is considered auspicious to observe the fast on this day - because it is said to attract the favor of Lord Vishnu. Additionally, it is thought that observing fast on this day is equivalent to 24 Ekadashis of the year.
Another significance of Nirjala Ekadashi is that it can help the observer gain moksha. As per the Hindu belief, the God of Death, Yama, sends a messenger to fetch the person’s soul after death. The soul is then sent to heaven or hell according to his or her deeds. But such are the benefits of nirjala fasting that those who observe this practice are said to be excused from Yama’s judgement and taken straight by the messengers of Vishnu to Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu.
That is why, though the fast is particularly challenging, it is strictly observed by the Vaishnavas (followers of Lord Vishnu).
Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Katha
The Nirjala Ekadashi katha is connected to Bhima, the second of the five Pandava brothers in the Mahabharata. He wanted to observe all 24 Ekadashi fasts like his brothers and mother, but being a food lover, he was unable to control his hunger. Seeking a solution to this, he turned to Sage Vyasa, his grandfather, for guidance.
Hearing his problem, the sage advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadashi. He told Bhima to hold the Nirjala Ekadashi vrat, which is worth the virtues of all 24 Ekadashi fasts combined. So, Bhima, despite his love for food, decided to undertake this severe penance. This act not only pleased Lord Vishnu but also set an example for future generations of devotees. Due to this Nirjala Ekadashi story, this sacred day is also called Pandava Bhima Ekadashi.
Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi
Here are some important pointers to keep in mind if you want to observe the fast with sincerity and pure intention:
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Wake up early in the morning with the intention of keeping the fast. Perform Nirjala Ekadashi rituals by bathing and wearing clean clothes.
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Perform Achamana (Hindu purification practice), but be careful not to put more than 6 Masha (or a drop) of water in your mouth as it can nullify the fast.
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Bathing the image or idol with Panchamrit (mixture of water, milk, honey, sugar, and jaggery) is also a part of the Nirjala Ekadashi vrat vidhi.
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Meditate in front of the idol while chanting the ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’ or the ‘Hare Krishna Maha Mantra’ on Tulsi beads.
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Visit the nearest temple of Lord Vishnu or Shri Krishna and offer prayers. If that’s not possible, you are allowed to worship at home. Offer flowers, fruits, and sandalwood to the idols of Lord Vishnu and light a pure cow’s ghee lamp.
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Another important part of the Nirjala Ekadashi vrat vidhi is the auspicious act of performing charity, which includes giving away items like clothes, food grains, and other necessary objects to needy people.
Nirjala Ekadashi Mantra For Puja
To seek divine blessings on this sacred day, here are five powerful puja mantras that you can chant while observing the Nirjala Ekadashi vrat:
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Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Meaning: I bow down to God Vasudeva.
Significance: This 12-syllable mantra invokes the protection of Lord Vishnu. Chanting this mantra on Nirjala Ekadashi can help in removing all types of obstacles from life.
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Om Shri Vishnave Cha Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dhimahi
Meaning: Let us understand the Supreme Lord Vishnu. We meditate upon Vasudeva. May Vishnu enlighten us.
Significance: This Vishnu Gayatri Mantra helps sharpen spiritual focus and purifies the mind. You can recite it during your Nirjala Ekadashi vrat to dispel any illusion or fear from your mind and to gain the protection of the divine.
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Om Krishnaya Vasudevaya Haraye Paramatmane Pranata Kleshanashaya Govindaya Namo Namah
Meaning: Salutations to Krishna, son of Vasudeva, the Supreme Soul, the remover of all sufferings. I bow again and again to Govinda.
Significance: On Nirjala Ekadashi, chanting this helps remove emotional and spiritual burdens and helps make a stronger connection with Lord Krishna.
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Om Shri Krishna Sharanam Mamah
Meaning: O Lord Krishna, You are my refuge; I surrender unto You.
Significance: This mantra shows your faith in the divine grace and justice of Lord Krishna. Chanting it repeatedly calms the mind and reaffirms spiritual surrender, helping devotees feel secure in Krishna’s protection.
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Hare Krishna Maha Mantra
Meaning: This chant calls out to the divine energies of Lord Krishna
Significance: This is the Maha Mantra, or “Great Mantra,” of the age. On Nirjala Ekadashi, chanting it helps purify the consciousness and liberate the soul from the cycle of birth and death.
Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting Rules
Since this is one of the most challenging and significant Ekadashi, some strict rules must be followed by those observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast.
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Strictly abstain from consuming water, beans and grains.
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Avoid hurting or killing animals as it will nullify your Nirjala Ekadashi vrat.
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Don’t get involved in any kind of fights or arguments. Similarly, you should steer clear of people with negative influences such as cheats, frauds, or those involved in nefarious activities.
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Abstain from indulging in sexual activities, gambling, and drinking alcohol.
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Avoid eating tamasik food a day before observing the fast.
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Washing hair or using soap while bathing is generally discouraged.
Health Benefits Of Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting
Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting can help improve the mental as well as physical well-being of a person, along with the following health benefits:
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Deep Detoxification: Going without food and water for 24 hours gives the digestive system a complete rest. This helps the body enter a deep detox mode, flushing out toxins through natural metabolic processes.
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Improved Digestive Health: By giving the gut time to reset, Nirjala Ekadashi fasting can help reduce bloating and improve digestion.
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Better Blood Sugar and Insulin Regulation: Nirjala Ekadashi fasting can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
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Cardiovascular Health Support: Dry fasting can lead to short-term lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, all of which support heart health over time.
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Fat Burning and Metabolic Boost: With no caloric intake, the body switches to fat as a primary energy source, leading to enhanced fat burning and potential weight management benefits.
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Mental Upliftment: Nirjala Ekadashi fasting can help provide calm and let your body and mind function at balanced levels.
What To Donate On Nirjala Ekadashi
Performing acts of charity and donation is considered very auspicious on Nirjala Ekadashi. Here are a few suggested items that you can donate:
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Food items
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Clothing
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Money or any kind of financial aid
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Religious items
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Funds to animal care shelters or goshalas (cow shelters)
Conclusion
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 is a sacred time to align your body, mind, and soul. This day holds the power to grant the rewards of all 24 Ekadashis combined. Whether observed through complete fasting, chanting, or deep reflection, the essence lies in sincerity and intention.
By observing Nirjala Ekadashi with devotion, you not only purify the body and mind but also take a significant step toward moksha (liberation) and Vaikuntha (the eternal abode of Lord Vishnu).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Which date is Ekadashi in 2025?
A. Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 falls on Tuesday, the 6th of June. It is observed on the Ekadashi (11th day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. This is considered the most sacred and powerful of all Ekadashis.
Q. Can we sleep on the Nirjala Ekadashi fast?
A. Yes, you can sleep during Nirjala Ekadashi, but traditionally, devotees are encouraged to stay awake as much as possible, especially at night, engaging in bhajans, chanting, and reading scriptures. Staying awake is believed to enhance the spiritual benefits of the fast. However, rest is allowed if needed, especially for health reasons.
Q. Who cannot do the Ekadashi fast?
A. While Nirjala Ekadashi fasting is spiritually beneficial, certain individuals should avoid or modify the fast:
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Pregnant or nursing women
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Elderly people or children
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People with chronic health conditions (like diabetes, kidney disorders, or heart problems)
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Those on regular medication requiring food or water intake
Q. What are the benefits of listening Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Katha?
A. It is believed that listening to Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Katha, especially on the auspicious day of Nirjala Ekadashi, can help wash away all the sins of the person and allow the attainment of moksha.
