Nirjala Ekadashi 2026: The Ekadashi Tithi (lunar day) holds special significance in Hinduism. Throughout the year, a total of 24 Ekadashi fasts are observed; however, during an *Adhik Maas* (intercalary month) year, two additional Ekadashis occur, bringing the total count to 26. Thus, an Ekadashi falls during both the *Krishna Paksha* (waning phase) and the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase) of every month. This year, due to the occurrence of an *Adhik Maas* within the month of Jyeshtha, a total of four Ekadashis will be observed.

The Ekadashi that falls during the month of Jyeshtha is known as Nirjala Ekadashi. This particular Ekadashi is considered the most significant of all, as the fast observed on this day requires abstaining completely from water. Performing the ritualistic worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on Nirjala Ekadashi ensures that one reaps the full spiritual rewards of the fast. According to religious beliefs, observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast yields spiritual merits equivalent to observing all other Ekadashi fasts combined. Let us explore the specific date, auspicious timings (*Shubh Muhurat*), and religious significance of Nirjala Ekadashi.

**When is Nirjala Ekadashi?**
According to the Vedic Panchang (almanac), the Ekadashi Tithi of the *Shukla Paksha* in the month of Jyeshtha will commence on June 24, 2026, at 6:12 PM. This Tithi will conclude on June 25, 2026, at 8:09 PM. Consequently, based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the lunar day prevailing at sunrise), the Nirjala Ekadashi fast will be observed on June 25, 2026.

**Timings for Nirjala Ekadashi Fast and Worship**
During the Nirjala Ekadashi fast, performing the worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi—while strictly adhering to the prescribed rituals and customs—holds immense significance. On this day, offering prayers during the *Brahma Muhurat*, *Abhijit Muhurat*, and *Ravi Yoga* is considered particularly auspicious. Regarding the *Brahma Muhurat*, it will span from 4:05 AM to 4:45 AM. Meanwhile, the *Abhijit Muhurat* will last from 11:56 AM to 12:52 PM, and the *Ravi Yoga* period will extend from 5:25 AM to 4:29 PM.

**Should one consume water during *Nirjala Ekadashi*?**
*Nirjala Ekadashi* holds special significance. During this fast, the devotee observes the vow without consuming any water. Therefore, if you have resolved to observe the *Nirjala Ekadashi* fast, you must observe it without drinking any water. This *Nirjala Ekadashi* fast is considered unique among all *Ekadashis* because it falls during the month when the heat is most intense; consequently, the fast is observed without the intake of water.

**The Significance of the *Nirjala Ekadashi* Fast**
The significance of *Nirjala Ekadashi* has been described in great detail in the scriptures and *Puranas*. According to legend, during the era of the *Mahabharata*, when the mighty and valiant Bhima wished to observe the *Ekadashi* fast, he found himself unable to sustain it without consuming food. Consequently, Sage Ved Vyasa advised Bhima to observe just one *Ekadashi* fast throughout the entire year. That specific *Ekadashi* was *Nirjala Ekadashi*, which occurs during the month of *Jyeshtha*.

Sage Ved Vyasa declared that anyone who observes this *Nirjala Ekadashi* during the month of *Jyeshtha* attains spiritual merit equivalent to observing all 24 *Ekadashis* of the year. Observing this *Nirjala Ekadashi* fast is believed to absolve one of all manner of sins. Furthermore, by observing this fast with strict adherence to prescribed rituals—including chanting (*Japa*), penance (*Tapa*), and acts of charity (*Daan*)—one can swiftly attain the divine grace of Lord Vishnu.

**Nirjala Ekadashi Fast *Parana* (Breaking of the Fast) – 2026**
The *Parana* (breaking of the fast) for *Nirjala Ekadashi* will take place on May 26, 2026. Accordingly, the auspicious time (*Muhurat*) for breaking the fast will be from 5:25 AM to 8:13 AM.

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