Nirjala Ekadashi
GujaratiAlso known as: Bhima Ekadashi, Pandava Nirjala
Nirjala Ekadashi
About Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi falls on the Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha in Jyeshtha month and is the most strict Ekadashi, observed without water (nirjala). It is also known as Bhima Ekadashi.
The vrat is observed with a complete fast without water for 24 hours, making it the most challenging Ekadashi. Devotees observe this vrat seeking the merit of all 24 Ekadashis combined.
The story is narrated in the Mahabharata, where Bhima, unable to observe the regular Ekadashi fasts, was advised by Vyasa to observe this single, most powerful Ekadashi.
In Gujarat, Nirjala Ekadashi is observed with great devotion, with devotees enduring the strict fast to receive the immense spiritual merit.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Devotees observe a complete fast without water for 24 hours.
- Do not eat or drink anything for 24 hours.
- Stay awake all night.
- Recite Vishnu Sahasranama.
- Worship Lord Vishnu with devotion.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: Break the fast on Dwadashi after morning prayers.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Clean the puja area.
- Place the Vishnu idol.
- Offer flowers, fruits, and Tulsi leaves.
- Light diyas and incense.
- Recite Vishnu mantras all day.
- Break the fast on Dwadashi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The most strict Ekadashi, observed without water for 24 hours, equivalent to the merit of all 24 Ekadashis combined.
It is named after Bhima from the Mahabharata, who observed this single, most powerful Ekadashi in place of all others.
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.