Nirjala Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadashi

In Sanatan Dharma, the Ekadashi dates hold immense importance, and among them, Nirjala Ekadashi is particularly significant. This Ekadashi is observed on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Jyeshtha. “Nirjala” means “fasting without water,” indicating that no water is consumed on this day. This fast is especially famous for penance and self-purification.

Mythological Context and Importance of Nirjala Ekadashi

According to religious texts, anyone who observes a fast on this day and refrains from not only water but all forms of indulgence is believed to have their sins erased and receives special blessings from Lord Vishnu. This day is particularly significant for those who are unable to observe other Ekadashi fasts, as the merit of observing Nirjala Ekadashi is considered equal to observing all other Ekadashis.

According to mythological stories, Bhima once asked Lord Krishna how he could observe all the Ekadashis, to which Lord Krishna advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadashi. By observing this fast, one not only attains material happiness but also spiritual progress.

Importance of Donation

Nirjala Ekadashi is a day of penance, self-purification, as well as donation and service. Donations made on this day hold special merit. As mentioned in the Bhagavad Gita:

“Yajnadana-tapah karma na tyajyam karyam eva tat.
Yajno danam tapaschaiva pavani maniṣhīṇām.”

Translation: Yajna (sacrifice), donation, and penance are not to be abandoned; rather, they should always be performed as they purify the wise.

Donation and Service on the Auspicious Occasion of Nirjala Ekadashi

On Nirjala Ekadashi, feeding the poor and differently-abled children and helping them is considered highly meritorious. Participate in the service project of providing lifetime meals (once a year) to the differently-abled children of Narayan Seva Sansthan and earn the spiritual benefits of this auspicious day.