Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh day of the Shukla paksha (waxing moon) in the month of Jyestha as per Hindu calendar. Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of both the waxing and the waning moon, hence there are in all twenty four Ekadashis in the entire year, when people observe fast. However the word ‘Nirjala’ translates to ‘no water’, hence many people fast on this day without having food or water. Observing fast on Nirjala Ekadashi is believed to be equivalent of observing fast on all of twenty four Ekadashis. The fast is observed by staunch followers of Lord Vishnu. It is said to be the toughest fast to undertake as it falls during one of the hottest of summer months.
The day is also known as Bheem Ekadasi – named after one of the pandavas and the second son of Kunti – Bheem, or even Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi. As per Brahma Vaivarta Purana, all pandavas – Yudhistir, Arjun, Nakul, Sahdev, their mother Kunti and their wife Draupadi would fast on all the Ekadashis without fail. Bheem, however being an avid food lover was not able to do so and hence felt guilty. Not wanting to dishonour Lord Vishnu, he approached Maharishi Vyas in nearby asharam, seeking a solution. The sage advised Bheem to observe the fast on Nirjala Ekadashi, where he would need to observe a strict fast without having even water and it would reap the same benefits as he would by observing all the Ekadashis. It is also believed that devotees who observe the fast on Nirjala Ekadashi will be met by Lord Vishnu’s messenger at his abode – Vaikunta after their death instead of Yamraj.
Some people who are not able to fast the entire day have one meal in the evening after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. However grains and beans are not allowed. This is extremely tough to follow as the Parana (breaking of the fast) is done only upon sunrise the following day.
People visit temples of Lord Vishnu on this day. Few people also offer puja to Lord Vishnu at their homes. On the day of fast, the idol of Lord Vishnu is bathed with panchamruta abhishek. He is bathed again with holy water and dressed in decorated clothes and garlands. Flowers and incense are offered with Aarti. Devotees meditate and pray to Lord Vishnu seeking his grace and blessings. It is considered both pious and auspicious to donate food and other items to the needy on Nirjala Ekadashi. Food grains, umbrella, pitcher filled with water etc are also donated to Brahmins on this day. Sleeping during the day is not allowed and observing night vigil is recommended however not compulsory. Hence on this day, many people are found to be coming together and performing jagratas by singing devotional songs dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The entire day of Nirjala Ekadashi is spent observing rigorous penance by devoting themselves to Lord Vishnu and seeking his blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life.
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