Like every year, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed across India with devotion and austerity this year as well. This fast is considered a particularly rigorous penance, as even water is not consumed. The word Nirjala itself means "without water," and this is what makes this Ekadashi unique among all others.
According to the Panchang, Nirjala Ekadashi in 2025 falls on Friday, June 6th. Observing this fast and worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day bestows the merits of many ages. This fast is also a valuable opportunity for those who cannot observe all Ekadashis throughout the year. It is believed that observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast alone grants the merit of all Ekadashis.
Fasting Dates and Timings
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: June 6, 2025, Friday, 02:15 AM
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: June 7, 2025, Saturday, 04:47 AM
- Vrat Parana (Breaking the Fast) Auspicious Muhurat: June 7, 2025, 01:44 PM to 04:31 PM
Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
A person observing this Ekadashi fast gains immense merit in this life and the next. There is a story associated with Bhima, who was unable to observe all Ekadashis. Sage Vyasa then advised him to observe this fast, which would give him the fruits of all Ekadashis together. Therefore, this fast is also called Bhimaseni Ekadashi.
Method of Observing the Fast
- On the evening before the fast, have a light, sattvic meal and resolve to observe the fast the next morning.
- On June 6th, wake up during Brahma Muhurta, bathe, and meditate on Lord Vishnu.
- Do not consume water, food, or fruits. Only Tulsi water may be used to moisten the lips if absolutely necessary.
- Recite Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Chalisa, Bhagavad Gita, etc., throughout the day.
- Light a lamp and chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya."
- Perform aarti to Lord Vishnu at night and continue the fast.
Method of Vrat Parana (June 7th)
- Wake up in the morning, bathe, and offer Arghya to the Sun God.
- Then worship Lord Vishnu and offer sattvic offerings.
- After the aarti, donate food and clothes to the poor and Brahmins.
- Partake of the Prasad yourself and break the fast.
- Consume only sattvic food during Parana; garlic and onions are prohibited.
Importance of Charity
The Nirjala Ekadashi fast is considered complete only when something is donated to a needy person on the day of Parana.
What to Donate?
- Vessels of cool water
- Umbrella, slippers, clothes
- Fruits, grains, jaggery
- Copper pots or pitchers
- Dakshina (money)
Special Precautions
- If Nirjala Ekadashi cannot be observed due to health reasons, a fruit-only fast or a water-only fast can be performed.
- Refrain from anger, lies, deceit, etc., on the fasting day.
- Maintain mental and physical purity.
Nirjala Ekadashi is not merely a fast, but a symbol of self-restraint, faith, and penance. This day provides us with an opportunity to pause in the whirlwind of our lives, purify our souls, and dedicate ourselves to God.
