Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Rules 2027

Nirjala Ekadashi is the most sacred of all 24 Ekadashis. Fasters refrain from drinking water during the duration of the vrat.

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How to Observe (Rules & Rituals)

Step 1: Waterless Fast: Abstaining from all food and water from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadashi.
Step 2: Vishnu Puja: Performing standard worship of Lord Vishnu with Tulsi leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Step 3: Daan (Charity): Donating fans, water pitchers, umbrellas, and food grains to the needy.
Step 4: Parana: Breaking the fast with water and light food during the designated Dwadashi Muhurat.

History & Significance

Nirjala Ekadashi is the most sacred and rigorous of all 24 Ekadashis. It is observed without food or a single drop of water (Nir-jala). Also known as Pandava Bhima Ekadashi, its history is recorded in the Mahabharata. Bhima, who possessed an insatiable appetite, was unable to observe the bi-weekly Ekadashi fasts. Sage Vyasa advised him to observe this single, waterless fast on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Jyeshtha month to attain the cumulative spiritual benefits of all 24 Ekadashis combined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Nirjala Ekadashi the most important Ekadashi?

It is a waterless fast. Observing it with full devotion is believed to grant the spiritual benefits of all 24 Ekadashis combined.

When is the fast broken?

The fast is broken (Parana) during the designated Dwadashi hours: 05:28 AM to 08:15 AM on June 8, 2026.