When Devotion Means No Water, No Food, Just Faith - Nirjala Ekadashi 2025
Manika | May 06, 2025, 18:15 IST
( Image credit : Unsplash )
Imagine fasting for an entire day—not just skipping food, but also going without a single drop of water. Sounds intense, right? That’s exactly what Nirjala Ekadashi is all about. Falling during the scorching Indian summer, this is considered the strictest Ekadashi fast among the 24 observed each year. But despite its physical difficulty, millions observe it with unwavering faith.If you’ve ever asked yourself, "Why do people put themselves through this?" - you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the spiritual, mythological, and personal aspects of Nirjala Ekadashi 2025, decode the fasting rules, and understand why this fast has such a powerful grip on the heart of devotees.
In 2025, Nirjala Ekadashi falls on June 6th, which is the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi tithi) of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Jyeshtha, as per the Hindu calendar.
This is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi, a name rooted in the Mahabharata (we’ll get to that story in a bit!).
Out of the 24 Ekadashis observed annually, Nirjala Ekadashi stands out for one reason: it is a complete fast without food and even water.
In the word NIRJALA “Nir” means without and “Jala” means water. This fast is an one-day tapasya where devotees aim to cleanse their body and mind, seeking divine blessings and liberation from the cycle of life and death (moksha).
Now you might wonder—isn’t skipping water in peak summer risky? Absolutely. That’s why this fast is often undertaken with serious intent, spiritual preparation, and under guidance, especially by the elderly or those with health concerns.
There’s more to this fast than just physical endurance. Nirjala Ekadashi holds deep spiritual meaning in Hinduism.
As per the Padma Purana, fasting on just Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to give the same punya as observing all 24 Ekadashis in the year. Think of it as a one-shot bonus round on the spiritual calendar. We can also call it a shortcut to divine grace.
According to the Mahabharata, Bhima, the mighty Pandava, confessed to Sage Vyasa that he couldn't follow all Ekadashis due to his enormous appetite. Vyasa advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadashi alone, as it holds the combined power of all other Ekadashis. Bhima followed his advice, and hence, it is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi.
It’s not just a physical cleanse, it’s a break from sensory overload. No eating, no drinking, minimal talking. Just prayer, introspection, and connecting with the divine. It’s a spiritual "reset" button.
In a world where instant gratification is the norm, willingly enduring thirst and hunger becomes an act of surrender. It reminds us that discipline, devotion, and mindfulness are not outdated ideas—but powerful practices that ground us.
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If you're planning to observe the fast in 2025, here are the essential Nirjala Ekadashi fasting rules:
1. No Food or Water
Unlike other Ekadashis where water and fruits may be allowed, Nirjala is a complete dry fast. That means zero intake from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadashi (next day).
2. Start Fresh
Many devotees eat a satvik meal (light, vegetarian) the evening before, and avoid onion, garlic, and grains to prepare their body for the fast.
3. Stay Clean & Pure
A bath before sunrise is encouraged. Wear clean clothes, light a diya (lamp), and begin the day with prayers and meditation.
4. Chanting and Reading Scriptures
Reading the Vishnu Sahasranama, listening to Bhajans, or engaging in japa (mantra chanting) is recommended.
5. Breaking the Fast (Parana)
The fast is typically broken on the next morning (Dwadashi tithi) after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. It’s done with fruits or light satvik food.
Hydrate the Day Before: Load up on water a day before so you’re not starting the fast already dehydrated.
Stay Indoors: Avoid the sun and stay cool, especially since it's during peak summer.
Rest More, Speak Less: Energy conservation is key.
Avoid Overexertion: This fast is more about spiritual effort than physical strain.
For many, this fast isn’t about punishment. It’s about purpose. Whether it’s a grandmother seeking peace, a young adult trying to reconnect with spirituality, or a family keeping tradition alive—it means something deeply personal.
Some say they’ve felt mentally clearer, more emotionally grounded, or even spiritually lighter post-fast. It becomes a yearly reminder that we are more than our physical needs.
In today’s hustle culture, the idea of pausing everything—even hydration—might seem extreme. But that’s also why it’s relevant.
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 offers us an opportunity to hit pause and ask ourselves:
By voluntarily stepping away from indulgence, we make space for awareness. And maybe, that’s the ultimate luxury in the modern world.
Nirjala Ekadashi isn’t about suffering—it’s about simplifying. About trading one day of comfort for a deeper connection with something higher. In a world of excess, this ancient tradition reminds us that less can be powerful.
So whether you observe the fast religiously or take inspiration from its values, Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 is more than a ritual—it’s a quiet rebellion against chaos. A sacred pause. A chance to reset.
And maybe, just maybe, it’ll help you see that your inner strength doesn’t need water to survive—it needs faith to thrive.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life!
This is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi, a name rooted in the Mahabharata (we’ll get to that story in a bit!).
So, What is Nirjala Ekadashi Exactly?
Pooja Ceremony
( Image credit : Freepik )
Out of the 24 Ekadashis observed annually, Nirjala Ekadashi stands out for one reason: it is a complete fast without food and even water.
In the word NIRJALA “Nir” means without and “Jala” means water. This fast is an one-day tapasya where devotees aim to cleanse their body and mind, seeking divine blessings and liberation from the cycle of life and death (moksha).
Now you might wonder—isn’t skipping water in peak summer risky? Absolutely. That’s why this fast is often undertaken with serious intent, spiritual preparation, and under guidance, especially by the elderly or those with health concerns.
Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi
Bhima(Pandavas)
( Image credit : Freepik )
There’s more to this fast than just physical endurance. Nirjala Ekadashi holds deep spiritual meaning in Hinduism.
As per the Padma Purana, fasting on just Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to give the same punya as observing all 24 Ekadashis in the year. Think of it as a one-shot bonus round on the spiritual calendar. We can also call it a shortcut to divine grace.
According to the Mahabharata, Bhima, the mighty Pandava, confessed to Sage Vyasa that he couldn't follow all Ekadashis due to his enormous appetite. Vyasa advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadashi alone, as it holds the combined power of all other Ekadashis. Bhima followed his advice, and hence, it is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi.
It’s not just a physical cleanse, it’s a break from sensory overload. No eating, no drinking, minimal talking. Just prayer, introspection, and connecting with the divine. It’s a spiritual "reset" button.
In a world where instant gratification is the norm, willingly enduring thirst and hunger becomes an act of surrender. It reminds us that discipline, devotion, and mindfulness are not outdated ideas—but powerful practices that ground us.
5 Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting Rules : The No-Shortcut Guide
Chanting Mantras
( Image credit : Freepik )
If you're planning to observe the fast in 2025, here are the essential Nirjala Ekadashi fasting rules:
1. No Food or Water
Unlike other Ekadashis where water and fruits may be allowed, Nirjala is a complete dry fast. That means zero intake from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadashi (next day).
2. Start Fresh
Many devotees eat a satvik meal (light, vegetarian) the evening before, and avoid onion, garlic, and grains to prepare their body for the fast.
3. Stay Clean & Pure
A bath before sunrise is encouraged. Wear clean clothes, light a diya (lamp), and begin the day with prayers and meditation.
4. Chanting and Reading Scriptures
Reading the Vishnu Sahasranama, listening to Bhajans, or engaging in japa (mantra chanting) is recommended.
5. Breaking the Fast (Parana)
The fast is typically broken on the next morning (Dwadashi tithi) after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. It’s done with fruits or light satvik food.
Note: If you're pregnant, elderly, unwell, or on medication, consult a doctor or spiritual guide before attempting a full dry fast.
Pro Tips for First-Time Observers
Fast Observer
( Image credit : Pexels )
Hydrate the Day Before: Load up on water a day before so you’re not starting the fast already dehydrated.
Stay Indoors: Avoid the sun and stay cool, especially since it's during peak summer.
Rest More, Speak Less: Energy conservation is key.
Avoid Overexertion: This fast is more about spiritual effort than physical strain.
Personal Connection: Why People Still Choose Nirjala Ekadashi
Spiritual Kid
( Image credit : Freepik )
Some say they’ve felt mentally clearer, more emotionally grounded, or even spiritually lighter post-fast. It becomes a yearly reminder that we are more than our physical needs.
Modern-Day Spirituality Meets Ancient Wisdom
Connection
( Image credit : Freepik )
Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 offers us an opportunity to hit pause and ask ourselves:
- What are we consuming (physically and mentally)?
- Can we go one day listening to our inner world more than the outside noise?
- What does self-control look like in our daily lives?
A Final Thought
Religious
( Image credit : Pexels )
Nirjala Ekadashi isn’t about suffering—it’s about simplifying. About trading one day of comfort for a deeper connection with something higher. In a world of excess, this ancient tradition reminds us that less can be powerful.
So whether you observe the fast religiously or take inspiration from its values, Nirjala Ekadashi 2025 is more than a ritual—it’s a quiet rebellion against chaos. A sacred pause. A chance to reset.
And maybe, just maybe, it’ll help you see that your inner strength doesn’t need water to survive—it needs faith to thrive.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life!