New Delhi: ‘Nirjala Ekadshi’ is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu religion. It is also known as ‘Pandava Nirjala Ekadshi’ or ‘Pandava Bhim Ekadshi’. By observing the ‘Nirjala Ekadshi’ fast the devotee can get the blessings of Lord Vishnu and attains moksha and peace. The word ‘Nirjala’ means without water. Devotees who decide to keep this fast are not suppose to drink water or eat anything after the sun rise. This is one of the most difficult fasts to keep unlike the other fasts.
Devotees who wish to keep this fast has to follow some strict rules in order to get the complete benefits of the fast. Since this ‘Nirjala Ekadshi’ falls during the extreme heat in summers, it becomes very challenging for the person to stay without water the whole day.
The devotee must increase the intake of water and should have juicy fruits a day before fasting so that the body doesn’t run out of water. Also that person should avoid eating spicy food or sugar rich food because these will trigger the craving of having water during your fast.
The ‘Nirjala Ekadshi’ fast holds some special significance since it was mentioned by Lord Krishna in Mahabharta. Lord Krishna adviced ‘Bhim’ in Mahabharta to observe this fast to get the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu. Since Bhim was a foodie, it was difficult for him to stop his crave for food. So instead of keeping fast on all the Ekadshi’s, Lord Krishna adviced him to keep this fast and get the benefit of fasting on all the Ekadshi’s.
The ‘Nirjala Ekadshi’ is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and this day devotees must pray and chant Lord Vishnu Mantra to get rid of all the sorrow and grief in their lives.
Date and Timings of the Fast:
Ekadshi Tithi starts: 17th June, 4.43 am
Ekadshi Tithi ends: 18th June, 6.24 am
Paran Tithi of Ekadshi: 19th June, 5.45 to 7.28 am
