🕉️ Vishnu
Shukla Ekadashi of Jyeshtha (May-June)
Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi (also called Bhim Ekadashi or Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi) is the strictest Ekadashi observed without food OR water for 24 hours. Legend states that the mighty Bhima, unable to observe all 24 Ekadashis, was advised by Vyasa to observe just this one — its merit equals all others combined. Falls in the peak summer month of Jyeshtha, making the waterless fast especially challenging and thus especially rewarding.
🔔 Puja Vidhi
- Complete abstinence from food AND water from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadashi
- Perform Vishnu puja before sunrise; offer water to Sun (Surya arghya) and immediately observe silence around water
- Chant "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" 108 times through the day
- Donate water pots (jaldan), fans, and sweets to Brahmins on Dwadashi morning
- Break fast next morning after sunrise puja with fresh water and a small portion of fruit
📜 Rules
- Not recommended for elderly, sick, pregnant women, or those on medication
- Practice must be gradual — start with regular Ekadashi first
- Wear light cotton; stay indoors during summer heat
- Silent chanting is preferred over loud recitation to conserve energy
Read the full vrat katha
📖 Open the katha in the Devotional Library
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot do Nirjala completely? +
You can observe as a phalahari (fruits and water) fast — the intention matters more than the extreme. Vishnu accepts sincere observance in whatever form health allows.
What is the reward of Nirjala Ekadashi? +
Classical texts say Nirjala Ekadashi grants the merit of all 24 Ekadashis of the year plus liberation from the cycle of rebirth for sincere observers.
Related vrats
Get Nirjala Ekadashi reminders
Sign up free — get the exact next date on your calendar, plus the panchang for that day.
Get free reminders →