Observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast bestows devotees with the equivalent merit of all Ekadashis throughout the year, granting them blessings of longevity and liberation (moksha). This fast is a path to liberation from sins and attaining the grace of Lord Vishnu. Ekadashi fasts are considered highly auspicious and meritorious in Sanātana Dharma. While there are 24 Ekadashis throughout the year, the Nirjala Ekadashi, falling in the Jyeshtha month, holds special significance.
This fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered the most challenging Ekadashi as even water is not consumed on this day. This year, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, June 6th, 2025. Several auspicious yogas are also forming on this day, which will bestow special benefits on those observing the fast.
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025: Understanding its Special Significance
The Nirjala Ekadashi fast is observed annually on the Ekadashi tithi of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Jyeshtha month. In 2025, it falls on Friday, June 6th. The fast involves abstaining from both food and water, hence the name 'Nirjala' (waterless) Ekadashi. In Hinduism, this Ekadashi is considered highly meritorious. It is believed that observing this fast yields the fruits of all 24 Ekadashis of the year. Those unable to observe all Ekadashis throughout the year can attain the same merit by observing just this one fast.
On this day, special prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu. Devotees wake up early, bathe, and offer tulsi (holy basil), yellow flowers, and fruits to the Lord. In the evening, they perform aarti (prayer ritual) and listen to the Vrat Katha (fasting narrative). The fast is broken the following day (Parana).
In 2025, this fast will be even more special due to the formation of auspicious yogas like the Varyaana Yoga and Bhadravasa, which will amplify the benefits of the fast manifold.
Auspicious Yogas Forming on Nirjala Ekadashi
Several auspicious yogas are forming on June 6th, 2025, the day of Nirjala Ekadashi, making this fast even more fruitful.
- Bhadravasa Yoga: This yoga will be in the Patala Loka (underworld), which is considered auspicious.
- Time: From 3:31 AM to 4:47 AM the next day.
- Varyaana Yoga: This yoga begins at 10:14 AM on June 6th and is known to bestow special benefits.
Observing the fast and worshipping Lord Vishnu during these auspicious yogas grants the individual manifold merit. It is believed that observing this day's fast provides the equivalent benefit of all 24 Ekadashis of the year and fulfills all desires.
Religious Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi is considered a highly sacred and meritorious date in Hinduism. This fast is specifically dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On this day, the devotee observes a fast without food or water, hence the name 'Nirjala' Ekadashi. It is believed that observing this fast with complete devotion earns the individual the merit equivalent to all 24 Ekadashis of the year.
According to the Puranas, worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this day brings happiness, prosperity, and destroys all sins. The individual observing this fast is liberated from Yama Raja's judgment after death and attains a place directly in Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu. Furthermore, this fast paves the way for longevity and attaining moksha. Therefore, it is considered extremely beneficial for spiritual purification and attaining liberation.
Fasting Rituals and Practices for this Day
In Hinduism, fasting is considered a means of religious and spiritual purification. Especially if you are fasting for Lord Vishnu, it is important to follow certain rules and procedures. Begin the fast by waking up early, bathing, and purifying yourself physically and mentally. Then, with a calm mind, make a resolve to observe the fast with devotion and discipline throughout the day.
If your health permits, observe a complete Nirjala fast, meaning without any food or drink. However, if your physical condition does not allow it, you can have light fruits to provide energy to the body and avoid hindering the purpose of the fast.
- Worship Lord Vishnu: To begin the worship of Lord Vishnu, first install the deity's image or picture in the home temple or a clean place. Then light a lamp and offer kumkum (vermilion), akshat (rice), flowers, and tulsi leaves to the Lord with devotion. Tulsi leaves are especially dear to Lord Vishnu, so be sure to offer them. At the end of the worship, offer bhog (offering) to the Lord, which may include fruits, sweets, or fruits according to the fast. Perform this entire process with a sincere heart and devotion.
- Chant Mantras: To please Lord Vishnu, chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya'. This mantra is considered very powerful and brings peace of mind. Regularly chanting this mantra improves mental state and infuses positive energy. If you have the time and devotion, you can also recite the Vishnu Sahasranama. Reciting the 1000 names of the Lord increases devotion and divine power, bringing happiness and prosperity to life.
- Evening Aarti and Falahar: In the evening, at the end of the fast, light a lamp and perform the aarti of the Lord. This aarti is a beautiful way to express devotion and faith to the Lord. If you are unable to observe a Nirjala fast, after the puja, have light fruits, milk, or sabudana (tapioca pearls) etc. The purpose of the fast is not to cause bodily suffering, but to focus the mind and dedicate it to the devotion of God. Falahar provides nourishment to the body and satisfaction to the mind, thus ensuring the full spiritual benefit of the fast.
Benefits of Observing the Fast
Observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast bestows the merit of all Ekadashis throughout the year. This fast destroys sins and opens the path to liberation (moksha). Devotees receive happiness, peace, and prosperity in their lives through the grace of Lord Vishnu. In addition, this fast grants liberation from Yama Raja's judgment after death and secures a place directly in Vishnu Lok (Vaikuntha). Thus, this fast is not only religious but also leads life towards peace and well-being.
The Story of Nirjala Ekadashi
The story of Nirjala Ekadashi is very famous and explains the importance of fasting and vows. Once, Maharshi Markandeya asked Lord Vishnu about the importance of Ekadashi fasts and which Ekadashi fast is the most effective. Lord Vishnu told him that the Nirjala Ekadashi fast of the Shukla Paksha in the Jyeshtha month is the best.
According to the story, once Bhima, among the Pandavas, observed this fast. Bhima felt very hungry and thirsty, but he observed the Nirjala Ekadashi fast with complete devotion. Due to the effects of this fast, he received the grace of Lord Vishnu and attained impossible powers.
Lord Vishnu blessed him that whoever observes this fast will be freed from all sins and will be worthy of going to heaven. Thus, observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast destroys sins and brings happiness and prosperity to life.
