Nirjala Ekadashi निर्जला
Nirjala Ekadashi, in the bright fortnight of Jyeshtha, is the most austere of all - kept without even water (nirjala). Tradition holds that this single fast earns the merit of all twenty-four Ekadashis, and it is also called Bhimseni Ekadashi.
- Lunar month
- Jyeshtha
- Paksha
- Shukla (waxing)
- Deity
- Vishnu
Significance
Nirjala Ekadashi, in the bright fortnight of Jyeshtha, is the most austere of all - kept without even water (nirjala). Tradition holds that this single fast earns the merit of all twenty-four Ekadashis, and it is also called Bhimseni Ekadashi.
How the fast is kept
Nirjala Ekadashi is observed like every Ekadashi - a fast (vrat) sacred to Vishnu, avoiding grains, rice, lentils and beans from sunrise until it is broken the next morning on Dwadashi, within the paran window. Observers keep it as nirjala (without water), phalahar (fruit and non-grain foods) or a single satvik meal, according to their health and devotion. See the full Ekadashi guide for the complete rules and the list of all the Ekadashis.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nirjala Ekadashi?
Nirjala Ekadashi, in the bright fortnight of Jyeshtha, is the most austere of all - kept without even water (nirjala). Tradition holds that this single fast earns the merit of all twenty-four Ekadashis, and it is also called Bhimseni Ekadashi.
Which month and paksha does Nirjala Ekadashi fall in?
Nirjala Ekadashi falls in Jyeshtha, in the Shukla Paksha (the waxing fortnight).
When is the next Nirjala Ekadashi in Mumbai, MH?
The next Nirjala Ekadashi in Mumbai, MH is on 14 June 2027.
How is Nirjala Ekadashi observed?
Like every Ekadashi, it is kept as a fast (vrat) sacred to Vishnu - avoiding grains, rice and beans - with worship, chanting and charity, and the fast broken the next morning (Dwadashi) during the paran window. See the full Ekadashi guide for the fasting rules.
Last updated 26 July 2026