Nirjala Ekadashi 2026 Date and significance In Hinduism, Ekadashi is observed as a sacred day dedicated to devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual purification. Among all Ekadashis, Nirjala Ekadashi holds a unique and powerful position. It is considered the most auspicious and spiritually rewarding Ekadashi vrat.

The word Nirjala means without water. On this day, devotees observe a complete fast without food and water, making it the strictest Ekadashi of the year. Due to its intensity and spiritual merit, Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to grant the benefits of all Ekadashis combined.

This blog explains what Nirjala Ekadashi is, when it is observed in 2026, its significance, fasting rules, puja vidhi, parana time, benefits, and the sacred story behind it, in a clear and meaningful way.

What is Nirjala Ekadashi?

Nirjala Ekadashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of the Jyeshtha month. Unlike other Ekadashis, where water intake is allowed, this vrat is performed without consuming even a drop of water for 24 hours.

This fast symbolises:
  • Complete self-control
  • Devotion beyond physical comfort
  • Detachment from bodily needs
  • Deep spiritual discipline
Because of its strict nature, Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as Bhima Ekadashi.

When Is Nirjala Ekadashi in 2026?: Nirjala Ekadashi Date and Time

Devotees are searching for the Nirjala Ekadashi date, According to the Hindu lunar calendar:

Date and time of Nirjala Ekadhasi in 2026
  • Nirjala Ekadashi 2026 falls on the 25th of June 2026.
  • Tithi: Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha Ekadashi.
  • Ekadashi tithi for the festival begins on 24th of June 2026 at 06: 12 pm.
  • Ekadashi tithi ends on the 25th of June 2026 at 08: 09 pm.
  • Nirjala Ekadashi Paran or fast-breaking muhurat is from 05:25 am to 08:13 am on 26th of June 2026.
Since this is a high-discipline fast, following the correct tithi is important

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Nirjala Ekadashi Parana Time 2026

Parana is performed on Dwadashi, after sunrise and within the prescribed Dwadashi tithi.

In 2026, the paran timing or fast-breaking timing of Nirjala Ekadashi is from 05:25 am to 08:13 am on the 26th of June 2026. Following the above-mentioned timing (muhurat), devotees must break the fast.
  • Break the fast gently
  • Start with water, fruits, or light food
  • Avoid overeating immediately
Parana timing should be followed carefully as mentioned above to complete the vrat correctly.

Nirjala Ekadashi Significance and Importance

The significance of Nirjala Ekadashi lies in its unmatched spiritual merit. Scriptures state that observing this single vrat with devotion grants the punya of observing all 24 Ekadashis of the year.

Its importance includes:
  • Purification of past karmas
  • Spiritual upliftment and discipline
  • Blessings of divine protection
  • Growth in self-control and devotion
  • Support on the path toward moksha
This Ekadashi is especially meaningful for those who are unable to observe every Ekadashi due to life responsibilities.

Nirjala Ekadashi Story (Vrat Katha)

The Nirjala Ekadashi story originates from the Mahabharata. Bhima, the strongest of the Pandavas, found it extremely difficult to observe regular Ekadashi fasts due to his physical constitution and appetite.

Disturbed by his inability to follow Ekadashi vrat, Bhima approached Sage Ved Vyasa and requested a solution. Understanding Bhima’s struggle, the sage advised him to observe one single, extremely strict Ekadashi — Nirjala Ekadashi.

Sage Ved Vyasa explained that by observing this vrat without food and water, Bhima would receive the combined spiritual benefits of all Ekadashis. Bhima followed the instructions with complete devotion and discipline.

This story teaches that sincere effort, even once, when done with full devotion, carries immense spiritual power.

Nirjala Ekadashi Fasting Rules

Nirjala Ekadashi fasting is the strictest form of Ekadashi vrat and should be observed only by those who are physically capable.

Main fasting rules:

  • No food and no water for 24 hours
  • Maintain purity of thoughts and actions
  • Avoid anger, negativity, and harsh speech
  • Engage in prayers, chanting, and meditation
Elderly people, pregnant women, and individuals with health issues should not observe a waterless fast and may follow a partial vrat or focus only on devotion.

How to Do Nirjala Ekadashi Fast Properly

Those observing the vrat should prepare mentally and physically a day before.
  • Wake up early on Ekadashi
  • Take a bath and wear clean clothes
  • Offer prayers with sincerity
  • Spend the day in spiritual activities
  • Avoid sleep during daytime if possible
The essence of the fast lies in discipline and devotion, not physical suffering.

Nirjala Ekadashi Puja Vidhi

The Nirjala Ekadashi puja vidhi focuses on devotion and simplicity.
  • Begin the day with purification
  • Offer flowers, incense, and lamp
  • Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Ekadashi katha
  • Chant mantras with focus
  • Donate water, food, clothes, or money if possible
Charity on this day is considered highly auspicious, especially helping the needy during summer.

Nirjala Ekadashi Benefits

Observing Nirjala Ekadashi with devotion offers:
  • Spiritual purification
  • Mental discipline and inner strength
  • Relief from negative karmic influences
  • Growth in devotion and faith
  • Blessings for peace and stability
Even those unable to fast fully gain benefits through prayers, charity, and sincere intention.

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Summary: Why Nirjala Ekadashi Is Spiritually Powerful

Nirjala Ekadashi represents the highest form of Ekadashi observance, symbolising devotion, restraint, and inner strength. More than physical fasting, it emphasises conscious self-control and spiritual intention.

Whether observed through a strict waterless fast or through devotion and charity, Nirjala Ekadashi encourages inner purification and spiritual awareness. Its true value lies in sincere effort, faith, and disciplined living.