According to the Hindu calendar, there are 24 Ekadashis in a year. This day is extremely dear to Lord Vishnu and is considered highly sacred. Among all the Ekadashis, Nirjala Ekadashi is regarded as particularly special.

On this day, devotees observe a *Nirjala* fast (a fast without water) to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that this Ekadashi yields the greatest spiritual rewards of all; thus, observing the fast and performing worship helps the devotee attain *Moksha* (salvation).

**Nirjala Ekadashi: The Greatest Ekadashi**
This significance is also described in the *Brihannaradiya Purana*. We discussed this with Pandit Saurabh Tripathi, an astrologer from Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh. He states, "In the *Uttara Khanda* (latter section) of the *Brihannaradiya Purana*, Maharshi Ved Vyasa explains the importance of this fast while conversing with Bhima. It is considered the greatest of all Ekadashis.

Even if you do not observe a fast on any other Ekadashi throughout the year, observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast alone can grant you the combined spiritual benefits of all the Ekadashis." However, merely fasting is not enough; performing the *Abhishek* (ritual bathing) of Lord Vishnu is also crucial.

**How ​​to Perform the *Abhishek* of Shri Hari Vishnu?**
On the day of Nirjala Ekadashi, you should wake up early in the morning and bathe during the *Brahma Muhurta* (the auspicious pre-dawn period). After bathing, wear new, yellow-colored clothes.
Clean the area where you intend to perform the worship and place an idol or picture of Lord Shri Hari Vishnu on a raised platform (*chowki*). Arrange *Tulsi* leaves, a *Kalash* (sacred pot), and a lit lamp at the place of worship, and invoke both Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu.

Next, perform the *Abhishek* of Lord Vishnu, starting with *Gangajal* (holy water from the Ganges). Follow this by performing the *Abhishek* using milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar. Finally, bathe the deity with pure water, wipe Him dry with a clean cloth, and dress Him in new attire.

Afterward, offer *Panchamrit*, mangoes, bananas, and a mixture of curd and *Mishri* (rock sugar) to Lord Vishnu. Also, mix the liquid used for the *Abhishek* into the *Panchamrit*. While performing the *Abhishek* (ceremonial bathing) of Lord Vishnu, silently chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya."

**You may also perform the *Abhishek* of Laddu Gopal**
If you do not have an idol of Lord Vishnu at home but have an idol of Laddu Gopal installed, you can perform the *Abhishek* of Laddu Gopal on Nirjala Ekadashi. Laddu Gopal represents the child form of Lord Krishna and is a manifestation of Lord Vishnu; therefore, performing the *Abhishek* of Laddu Gopal yields the same spiritual merit as performing it for an idol of Lord Vishnu.

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