Nirjala Ekadashi 2026 Date: The Ekadashi tithi (lunar day) will begin at 6:13 PM on June 24 and conclude at 8:09 PM on June 25. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the tithi prevailing at sunrise), the Nirjala Ekadashi fast will be observed on Thursday, June 25. On this day, *Shiv Yoga* will prevail until 10:54 AM, followed by *Siddh Yoga*. The convergence of *Shiv Yoga* and* Siddha Yoga* on Nirjala Ekadashi is considered extremely rare and auspicious. The influence of these *Yogas* multiplies the spiritual benefits of worshipping Lord Vishnu, fasting, and performing acts of charity, thereby granting the devotee spiritual progress, mental peace, and the fulfillment of cherished desires.

Significance of Bhimseni Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as 'Bhimseni Ekadashi'. On this day, devotees worship Lord Vishnu while observing a fast that entails abstaining from both food and water. Bestowing merit equivalent to that of all twenty-four Ekadashis combined, this fast holds special significance for health and the practice of charity. Dedicated to Lord Shri Hari Vishnu, its glory is described in great detail in the scriptures. It is believed that a devotee who observes the Nirjala Ekadashi fast with faith and adherence to the prescribed rules reaps the same spiritual rewards as observing all the Ekadashis throughout the year.

Nirjala Ekadashi is a divine festival of self-purification, restraint, devotion, and charity. This day offers the devotee the special grace of Lord Vishnu, liberation from sins, and the path to *Moksha* (salvation).

Mythological Legend

Nirjala Ekadashi is also called Bhimseni Ekadashi. According to mythological legends, the mighty Bhimsen found it impossible to go without food; therefore, Maharshi Vedavyasa advised him to observe the fast of this single Nirjala Ekadashi to attain the spiritual merit of all the Ekadashis in the year. Since then, this Ekadashi has also become famously known as Bhimseni Ekadashi.

What does 'Nirjala' mean?

The word 'Nirjala' means 'without water'. On this day, the devotee abstains from both food and water from sunrise until *Dwadashi* (the twelfth day) the following morning. This fast is considered extremely arduous, yet its spiritual significance is equally profound.

The *Nirjala* (waterless) fast is particularly challenging because it entails complete abstinence from water. However, individuals with health issues, the elderly, pregnant women, or those with medical conditions can still attain the spiritual merit of this fast through worship, chanting (*Japa*), and acts of charity; in *Sanatan Dharma*, sincerity of intent and devotion are held paramount.

*Nirjala Ekadashi* is a grand festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, self-restraint, and charity. This fast paves the way for merit, peace, and prosperity in life. By observing the fast, performing worship, and donating food on this sacred occasion, the devotee becomes a recipient of Lord Vishnu's grace.

Significance of Charity: On this day, donating items such as a pitcher filled with water (*Kalash*), an umbrella, clothing, fruits, and food grains is considered highly auspicious and meritorious.

Worship of Lord Vishnu: Chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' and recite the *Vishnu Sahasranama*.

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