Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Katha
Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the most significant and powerful Ekadashis. It falls on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Jyeshtha month (May–June). The specialty of this vrat is that devotees observe it without food and even without water (nirjala) for the entire day, dedicating their devotion to Lord Vishnu.
The Legend (Vrat Katha)
Once, Bhima, the second Pandava, approached Maharishi Vyasa. He said,
“O revered sage, my mother Kunti and my brothers fast on every Ekadashi, but I cannot control my hunger and thirst. Please give me a way so that I may also attain the fruits of observing all Ekadashis without having to fast each fortnight.”
Vyasa Muni replied,
“O Bhima, you should observe Nirjala Ekadashi, which comes once a year in Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha. By observing this single Ekadashi with full devotion—without food or water—you will gain the benefits of all the 24 Ekadashis combined.”
Hearing this, Bhima accepted the vow and observed Nirjala Ekadashi. From that day, this Ekadashi is also called “Bhimseni Ekadashi”.
Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
- Observing this vrat grants the fruit of all 24 Ekadashis of the year.
- It washes away sins and grants salvation (moksha).
- Devotees receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu, wealth, health, and spiritual upliftment.
- Even donating water, food, and clothes on this day brings immense punya (virtue).
Vrat Vidhi (How to Observe)
- Wake up early, take a holy bath, and resolve to keep the fast.
- Worship Lord Vishnu with tulsi leaves, flowers, incense, and lamps.
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, read Bhagavad Gita, or recite Vishnu bhajans.
- Observe a strict fast without food and water till the next morning.
- Break the fast on Dwadashi after offering prayers.
Belief: Whoever keeps Nirjala Ekadashi with devotion, even once in their lifetime, attains the blessings of Lord Vishnu and liberation from worldly sufferings.
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