Nirjala Ekadashi 2025: The Most Sacred Ekadashi Vrat on June 6th and 7th

This Ekadashi vrat (fast) is unique because it is believed to bestow the combined spiritual merits of all 24 Ekadashis observed throughout the year. It is highly revered for purification, spiritual progress, and attaining moksha (liberation).

Key Dates and Timings for Nirjala Ekadashi 2025

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 2:16 AM on June 6, 2025
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 4:48 AM on June 7, 2025
• Parana (Breaking the Fast): Between 5:44 AM and 8:24 AM on June 7, 2025

The fast begins at sunrise on June 6th and is observed until the next sunrise on June 7th, following which devotees break their fast after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu.

Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi

• Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the most sacred days in Hinduism, as it is believed to bring immense spiritual and material benefits. Observing this vrat is said to eliminate sins, purify the mind and body, and bring divine blessings.

The Legend of Bhima and Nirjala Ekadashi

• The significance of Nirjala Ekadashi is closely associated with Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers in the Mahabharata. Unlike his brothers, Bhima found it difficult to fast on all Ekadashis due to his immense appetite.
• Sage Vyasa advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadashi, which carries the combined benefits of all Ekadashis in the year.
• By following this vrat, Bhima could attain spiritual rewards and divine blessings. Since then, Nirjala Ekadashi has been considered the most powerful Ekadashi.

Spiritual Benefits of Nirjala Ekadashi

• Observing this Ekadashi is believed to bring forgiveness of past sins, purification of the soul, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
• Devotees receive blessings for good health, prosperity, and peace.
• The vrata is said to remove obstacles, illnesses, and financial difficulties, ensuring harmony and success in life.

Rituals and Observances of Nirjala Ekadashi

• Complete Fast Without Food and Water
  • Devotees abstain from consuming food or water from sunrise on June 6th until sunrise on June 7th.
  • This is considered a test of discipline, faith, and devotion.
• Worship of Lord Vishnu
  • Devotees set up an altar with Lord Vishnu’s idol or image.
  • Offerings such as tulsi leaves, flowers, fruits, and incense are made.
  • The Vishnu Sahasranama (1000 names of Vishnu) is recited.
• Chanting Mantras and Reading Scriptures
  • Devotees chant sacred Vishnu mantras, such as: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.
  • Reading the Bhagavad Gita and Vishnu Purana is encouraged.
• Charity and Donations
  • Giving to the needy is a crucial aspect of Nirjala Ekadashi. Devotees donate:
    • Food and water
    • Clothes and essentials
    • Copper vessels and black sesame seeds (til)
• Parana (Breaking the Fast)
  • The fast is broken on June 7th during the prescribed Parana time by consuming light sattvic food after offering it to Lord Vishnu.

Spiritual Benefits of Observing Nirjala Ekadashi

• Forgiveness of Sins
  • Observing Nirjala Ekadashi cleanses the soul of past karma and sins.
• Attaining Moksha (Salvation)
  • This fast is believed to grant liberation from the cycle of rebirth (moksha).
• Blessings of Good Health and Prosperity
  • Devotees are protected from diseases, financial struggles, and negativity.
• Equivalent to Observing All 24 Ekadashis
  • Nirjala Ekadashi provides the merit of all Ekadashi fasts in the year.
• Strengthens Self-Discipline and Faith
  • The rigorous nature of the fast helps in building self-control and devotion.

Astrological Importance of Nirjala Ekadashi

• The planetary alignment on Nirjala Ekadashi enhances the spiritual potency of fasting and prayers.
• It is a highly auspicious day to overcome obstacles and achieve peace in life.

Celebrations at Prominent Temples

• Varanasi (Kashi Vishwanath Temple)
  • Grand Ganga Aarti is performed.
  • Thousands of devotees take a holy dip in the Ganges.
• Jagannath Puri (Jagannath Temple, Odisha)
  • Special Vishnu pujas and bhajans are organized.
• Vrindavan and Mathura (Banke Bihari Temple)
  • Devotees observe all-night kirtans and temple rituals.

How to Observe Nirjala Ekadashi at Home

• Begin the day with a bath and purification rituals
• Set up an altar with Lord Vishnu’s idol
• Offer flowers, tulsi leaves, and fruits
• Chant Vishnu mantras and read the Bhagavad Gita
• Avoid distractions and focus on devotion
• Break your fast during Parana time with sattvic food

Conclusion

• Nirjala Ekadashi 2025, observed on June 6th and 7th, is a sacred opportunity to purify the body, mind, and soul.
• By observing this vrata with full devotion, one can attain the blessings of Lord Vishnu, spiritual progress, and ultimate liberation.
• This Ekadashi serves as a reminder of self-discipline, faith, and devotion in our spiritual journey.
• Whether at temples or in the comfort of your home, Nirjala Ekadashi is a powerful day to embrace purity, seek divine grace, and align with Lord Vishnu’s eternal blessings.