Have you heard of an Ekadashi so sacred that observing it equals the punya of all 24 Ekadashis in a year? That’s Nirjala Ekadashi for you.

Also called Bhimaseni Ekadashi, this spiritually potent day is one of the toughest fasting days in Hindu tradition because it requires absolute nirjala means no food, no water.

In 2025, Nirjala Ekadashi falls on June 6, making it the perfect time to align with divine energy and reset spiritually. But why is it so important? Let’s explore the significance, rituals, and spiritual secrets of Nirjala Ekadashi that can bring you blessings, health, and peace.

What Is Nirjala Ekadashi?

• Falls on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Jyeshtha
• The term Nirjala means "without water"
• Observing this fast is said to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation)

The Story Behind Nirjala Ekadashi

• Bhima, one of the Pandavas, loved food and found it hard to fast on Ekadashi
• Sage Vyasa told him that if he observed just one fast without water on this day, it would give him the same benefits as observing all 24 Ekadashis in a year
• From then on, Nirjala Ekadashi became known as Bhimaseni Ekadashi

Benefits of Observing Nirjala Ekadashi

• Helps in detoxifying the body and mind
• Brings divine blessings of Lord Vishnu
• Said to remove sins of past lives
• Helps in gaining control over desires
• Increases focus, willpower, and spiritual discipline

Rituals to Follow on Nirjala Ekadashi

• Wake up during Brahma Muhurat and take a holy bath
• Offer Tulsi leaves, flowers, incense, and yellow sweets to Lord Vishnu
• Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
• Observe a strict no water and no food fast till sunrise the next day
• Read the Bhagavad Gita or listen to spiritual discourses

Why Nirjala Ekadashi Is Ideal for Intention Setting

• The Ekadashi tithi is ruled by Lord Vishnu, the sustainer of the universe
• Energy on this day is highly sattvic, making it perfect for: Setting spiritual goals Releasing emotional baggage Practicing gratitude

Tip: Write down one thing you want to release and one thing you want to manifest. Burn the paper with a prayer to Lord Vishnu.

Can’t Fast Completely? Try This Instead

If you're unable to fast without water, you can:

• Donate food and water to the needy
• Offer coconut water, milk, and seasonal fruits at a Vishnu temple
• Feed cows or offer jaggery and water under a Peepal tree

Foods and Other Things to Donate if You're Not Fasting

Even if you can’t fast, you can still earn punya by feeding others. On Nirjala Ekadashi, it’s considered auspicious to donate:

• Coconut water
• Seasonal fruits like mangoes and bananas
• Tulsi plants
• Copper vessels
• Water jugs or earthen pots (matkas) to the poor or at temples

This is believed to help wash away Pitru Dosha and bring blessings from ancestors.

In a nutshell

Nirjala Ekadashi isn’t just about skipping water and food. It’s a test of your spirit, a ritual of surrender, and a path toward higher consciousness. It’s one day of discomfort for a year of divine grace. One day of discipline for a lifetime of karmic relief. If you’ve never fasted before, this is the one to try, not for rewards, but for inner peace.

Ask Agastyaa or explore more on Astrosure.ai to make the most of every sacred moment.