Nirjala Ekadashi 2026Image Credit source: PTI
Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting Rules: In Hindu religion, although Ekadashi comes in every month throughout the year, but among all these, Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Jyeshtha month is considered the most special and important. We all know it as Nirjala Ekadashi. As its name suggests, ‘Nirjala’ means without water. This fast is considered to be the most difficult among all Ekadashis because it is prohibited to drink even a drop of water even during hot summer days. But many people have this question in their mind that why drinking water is prohibited during this fast. There is a secret of religious beliefs and a mythological story hidden behind it.
What is the story of Nirjala Ekadashi?
According to the legend, during the Mahabharata period, Bhimsen among the Pandavas was very fond of food. Like all his brothers, he was not able to observe the fast on all the Ekadashis throughout the year. When he asked Maharishi Ved Vyas for a solution in this regard, the sage advised him to observe the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi only once a year. It is said that Maharishi Ved Vyas told that if a person cannot keep the fast of all the Ekadashis, then he should keep the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi of Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha with full devotion. By this he gets virtue equal to all the Ekadashis of the year. Since then the importance of this fast increased further.
Why is drinking water considered taboo?
According to religious beliefs, Nirjala Ekadashi In this, control of both body and mind is considered most important. On this day, the fasting person also gives up water from sunrise till the next day, Dwadashi Tithi. This sacrifice is considered a symbol of self-control, penance and complete dedication to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that by observing this fast by giving up both food and water, a person learns to control his mind and senses. For this reason, Nirjala Ekadashi is included among the most difficult fasts.
Religious significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
According to religious beliefs, observing the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi brings special blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is said that this fast destroys sins and brings happiness and prosperity in life. Many people also believe that fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi can yield the same virtuous results as fasting on all other Ekadashis. This is the reason why special worship is done in Vishnu temples across the country on this day.
How is the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi observed?
On the day of Nirjala Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu is worshiped after taking bath in the morning. Devotees take a vow to fast and meditate on God, chant hymns and mantras throughout the day. The next day on Dwadashi Tithi, after the puja, the fast is broken. Donating water, food, umbrella, clothes and donating to needy people on this day is also considered very auspicious. Giving water to thirsty people during the summer season is also considered an act of virtue.
Also read: Did you accidentally drink water on the day of Nirjala Ekadashi? So complete the fast in this way!
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.
