There are twenty-four Ekadashis, out of which Nirjala Ekadashi is the most important. Nirjala means without water, thus Nirjala Ekadashi fasting is observed without water and any type of food. Nirjala Ekadashi Vratam is the toughest among all Ekadashi fasting due to strict fasting rules.
Story Behind Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as Pandava Ekadashi or Bhimseni Ekadashi or Bhima Ekadashi due to one legend associated with Nirjala Ekadashi. Bhimsen, the second Pandava brother and voracious eater, was not able to control his desire for having food and was not able to observe Ekadashi fasting. Except Bhima, all Pandava brothers and Draupadi used to observe all Ekadashi fasting. Bhima, being upset due to his weak determination and doing a dishonour to Lord Vishnu, met Maharishi Vyasa to find some solution. Sage Vyasa advised Bhima to observe single Nirjala Ekadasi fasting to compensate for not observing all Ekadashi fasting in a year. Due to this legend, Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi or Pandava Ekadashi.
Time
Nirjala Ekadashi fasting falls during Shukla Paksha of Jyeshtha month and currently falls in month of May or June. Nirjala Ekadashi falls just after Ganga Dussehra but in some years Ganga Dussehra and Nirjala Ekadashi might fall on the same day.
Benefits
- Devotees who are unable to observe all twenty fours Ekadashi fasting in a year should observe single Nirjala Ekadashi fasting as fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi brings all benefits of twenty-four Ekadashi fasting in a year.
- It attracts the blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Vishnu removes the sins of those who observe this fast. The obstacles to spiritual progress are removed and perfection in life is achieved. Those who fast get the blessings of a religious bent of mind, wealth and ultimate salvation.
- It prevents and cures illnesses and diseases as it helps in the detoxification of the body and cleansing of the bowel system. Fasting helps to improve the working of the digestive, respiratory, circulatory, urinary system. It makes the person strong mentally and physically.
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