Festivals
Nirjala Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time, Vrat Katha &…
Nirjala Ekadashi 2026: Date, Parana Time & The Toughest Vrat Vidhi
Nirjala Ekadashi, often called the “King of all Ekadashis,” is the most sacred and rigorous fast in Hinduism. Falling in the scorching heat of the Jyeshtha month (Shukla Paksha), this vrat requires devotees to abstain from not just food, but also water (Nir-Jala = Without Water) for 24 hours.
For 2026, Nirjala Ekadashi falls on Friday, June 26, 2026. It is believed that observing this single fast with pure devotion grants the spiritual merit (Punya) of observing all 24 Ekadashis in the year.
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📅 Nirjala Ekadashi 2026 Date & Parana Time
| Event | Date & Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Nirjala Ekadashi Date | June 26, 2026 (Friday) |
| Ekadashi Tithi Begins | 01:12 AM on Jun 26, 2026 |
| Ekadashi Tithi Ends | 11:25 PM on Jun 26, 2026 |
| Parana Time (Breaking Fast) | 05:46 AM to 08:30 AM on June 27, 2026 |
| Hari Vasara End Time | 05:46 AM on Jun 27, 2026 |
*Note: Parana must be done on Dwadashi Tithi (June 27) after sunrise and after Hari Vasara ends.
Why is it called Bhimseni Ekadashi? (Vrat Katha)
The significance of this Ekadashi dates back to the Mahabharata era. Bhima, the second Pandava brother known for his immense strength and appetite, struggled to control his hunger. While his brothers (Yudhisthira, Arjuna, etc.) and Draupadi observed all 24 Ekadashis, Bhima felt guilty about his inability to fast.
He approached Sage Vyasa (his grandfather) for a solution. Sage Vyasa advised him to observe just one strict fast annually—the Nirjala Ekadashi in Jyeshtha month—where one does not even consume a drop of water from sunrise to the next sunrise. By doing so, Bhima would attain the merit of all 24 Ekadashis. Bhima successfully observed this, which is why it is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi or Pandava Ekadashi.
Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi: Do’s and Don’ts
1. The Waterless Fast
The fast begins at sunrise on Ekadashi and ends at sunrise on Dwadashi. Devotees must strictly avoid food and water. However, those with medical conditions, the elderly, and pregnant women should not attempt the waterless version and can take fruits/milk.
2. Vishnu Puja
Clean the altar and place an idol of Lord Vishnu (or Shaligram). Offer yellow flowers, sandalwood paste (Chandan), and Tulsi leaves (Lord Vishnu loves Tulsi). Light a ghee lamp and recite the “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” mantra.
3. Daan (Charity) – The Most Important Act
Since this fast falls in the peak of summer, donating water is considered the highest form of merit.
- Donate: Earthen water pots (Matka), hand fans, umbrellas, sherbet (sweet water), shoes, and seasonal fruits like melons and mangoes to Brahmins or the needy.
4. Jagran (Night Vigil)
It is auspicious to stay awake at night (Jagran) singing Bhajans or reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama.
Book Pandit for Ekadashi Puja
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- ✅ Vishnu Sahasranama Archana: For health and peace.
- ✅ Tulsi Vivah & Puja: For marriage obstacles.
- ✅ Satyanarayan Puja: For general prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can we drink water on Nirjala Ekadashi?
Strictly speaking, no. The word ‘Nirjala’ means ‘without water’. However, you can take a single drop of water as ‘Achaman’ during Puja. If your health does not permit, you may observe a regular Ekadashi fast with water and fruits.
2. How to break the Nirjala Ekadashi fast?
The fast must be broken on Dwadashi (June 27) during the Parana time (05:46 AM to 08:30 AM). Offer water and food to a Brahmin first, then drink water (lemon water is preferred) to break the fast, followed by a Sattvic meal.
3. Is it compulsory to stay awake all night?
While ‘Jagran’ (staying awake) increases the merit of the fast, it is not mandatory. If you cannot stay awake, ensure you sleep with a pure mind chanting the Lord’s name.
