How to do Nirjala Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting Rules: If you’re looking for an Ekadashi fast that brings the highest rewards but also demands the most discipline, Nirjala Ekadashi is the one. It’s not just about avoiding grains or certain foods—this is a fast where even water is forbidden! Observing Nirjala Ekadashi with sincerity is said to grant the benefits of all 24 Ekadashis combined. Sounds intense, right? Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through all the rules, rituals, and practical tips so you can observe it correctly and make the most of this sacred day. What is Nirjala Ekadashi? Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the most significant fasting days in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The word “Nirjala” means “without water,” making this the toughest of all Ekadashi fasts. Devotees refrain from eating or drinking anything for a full 24 hours, believing that doing so brings immense spiritual and physical benefits. The Story Behind Nirjala Ekadashi The significance of Nirjala Ekadashi comes from the Mahabharata. Bhima, one of the Pandavas, had a strong appetite and found it difficult to observe the regular Ekadashi fasts that required avoiding grains. He sought advice from Sage Vyasa, who recommended that if he could not keep all the Ekadashi fasts, he should at least observe Nirjala Ekadashi, as it alone grants the blessings of all 24 Ekadashis combined. Since then, it has been considered the most powerful Ekadashi. Ekadashi Fasting Rules as per ISKCON: Guidelines, Rituals, and Spiritual Benefits When is Nirjala Ekadashi 2025? Nirjala Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Jyeshtha (May–June). Nirjala Ekadashi Fast Rules Nirjala Ekadashi is different from other Ekadashis because of its strictness. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping the fast correctly. 1. Preparation for the Fast Observing Nirjala Ekadashi requires physical and mental preparation. 2. Strict Fasting Rules (No Food, No Water) 3. Who Can Be Exempted from the Full Fast? While Nirjala Ekadashi is meant to be strict, it may not be suitable for everyone. 👉 If you cannot do a complete Nirjala fast, you can: Rituals and Puja Vidhi on Nirjala Ekadashi 1. Morning Rituals 2. Daytime Worship 3. Night Rituals Breaking the Fast (Parana Vidhi) Breaking the fast correctly is just as important as keeping it. Spiritual and Health Benefits of Nirjala Ekadashi Observing Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to bring multiple benefits: Spiritual Benefits ✅ Grants the blessings of Lord Vishnu and washes away past sins.✅ Equivalent to observing all 24 Ekadashis in a year.✅ Helps in attaining moksha (liberation) and spiritual growth. Health Benefits ✅ Detoxifies the body by giving the digestive system a break.✅ Improves mental discipline and self-control.✅ Enhances concentration, clarity, and mindfulness. Conclusion Nirjala Ekadashi is not an easy fast, but it is one of the most rewarding. If you can follow it with sincerity, it is said to bring divine blessings, spiritual growth, and even health benefits. Whether you do a full Nirjala fast or a modified version, what matters most is devotion, sincerity, and positive intent. Would you observe Nirjala Ekadashi this year? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 🙏 Thursday Fast Rules: Everything You Need to Know