Nirjala Ekadashi

Telugu

Also known as: Bhima Ekadashi, Waterless Ekadashi

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2026 Telugu Date

Nirjala Ekadashi

About Nirjala Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight in Jyeshtha (May-June). It is the most rigorous Ekadashi vrat, observed without any water (nirjala = waterless).

Devotees observe strict fasting without even water for 24 hours. The vrat is believed to grant the merit of all 25 Ekadashis observed throughout the year.

In Andhra Pradesh, the heat of summer makes this vrat particularly challenging. Devotees are advised to stay indoors and focus on spiritual practices.

Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules

Devotees observe complete fasting without water for 24 hours — the most rigorous Ekadashi vrat.

Sankalpa Mantra

Om Namo Narayanaya, I observe this Nirjala Ekadashi vrat without water for the removal of all sins and spiritual liberation.

Step-by-Step Fasting Procedures:

Wake up early and take a ritual bath.
Observe complete fasting without food or water for 24 hours.
Spend the entire day in prayer and meditation.
Break the fast the next day with water and food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why is Nirjala Ekadashi observed without water?

According to legend, Bhima (the Pandava) could not observe partial fasts due to his enormous appetite. Lord Vyasa suggested this single waterless fast as equivalent to all other Ekadashis combined.

Q: Can everyone observe Nirjala Ekadashi?

This is an extremely rigorous vrat and should only be observed by healthy individuals. Children, elderly, pregnant women, and those with health conditions should observe a modified fast.

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.