Nirjala Ekadashi, a significant Hindu observance, will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The term 'Nirjala' translates to 'without water' in Sanskrit, marking this Ekadashi as one of the most rigorous fasts in the Hindu calendar.
On Nirjala Ekadashi, devotees undertake a strict fast abstaining from both food and water throughout the day. It is considered the most challenging of all Ekadashi fasts due to its waterless requirement. This Ekadashi typically falls just after Ganga Dussehra, though in some years, they may coincide on the same day.
Date and Timings:
Nirjala Ekadashi: Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 04:43 AM, June 17, 2024
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 06:24 AM, June 18, 2024
Parana Time: 05:32 to 07:28, June 19, 2024
Dwadashi End Moment: 07:28, June 19, 2024
Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as Pandava Ekadashi or Bhimseni Ekadashi, named after Bhimsen, the second Pandava brother. Bhimsen, known for his voracious appetite, struggled to observe regular Ekadashi fasts. Distressed by his failure, he sought guidance from Maharishi Vyasa, who advised him to observe a single Nirjala Ekadashi fast to compensate for all missed Ekadashis throughout the year. This legend is why Nirjala Ekadashi is alternatively known by these names.
Benefits of Observing Nirjala Ekadashi Vratam:
Observing Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to be equivalent to observing all 24 Ekadashis of the year. The vratam is associated with immense spiritual and health benefits:
Purification: Fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi purifies the body and mind. It is believed to cleanse the soul, erase sins, and facilitate spiritual growth.
Health Benefits: Despite its physical challenge, fasting without water can aid in detoxifying the body, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system.
Spiritual Development: This fast requires intense devotion and self-discipline, instilling patience, control over desires, and surrender to the divine.
Devotees observe Nirjala Ekadashi with deep reverence and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for liberation (moksha). The fast begins at sunrise and concludes on the next day after sunrise, followed by the Parana, which is breaking the fast. This year, the Parana time falls between 05:32 to 07:28 on June 19, 2024.
Nirjala Ekadashi is not just a day of rigorous fasting but also a day of spiritual rejuvenation and purification. It symbolizes devotion, self-discipline, and the quest for spiritual upliftment. Devotees across the world eagerly await this auspicious day to seek the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu.
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