Nirjala Ekadashi 2025: Hinduism stands as one of the world's major religions, and Ekadashi is recognized as a significant and sacred day dedicated to Lord Vishnu according to the Hindu/Vaishnav calendar. On this holy occasion, devotees engage in a strict fast and perform various rituals to invoke the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Each year, there are 24 Ekadashis, occurring twice monthly—once during the Shukla Paksha and once during the Krishna Paksha.

Nirjala Ekadashi, also known as 'Bhim Ekadashi' or 'Pandav Nirjala Ekadashi', is observed on the Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi. On this day, individuals refrain from both food and water. In 2025, this significant day will fall on Saturday, June 7, according to the Vaishnav calendar. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this auspicious occasion. Observing a fast on Ekadashi is believed to guide individuals away from poor decisions and towards a more spiritual life.

Fasting on this day is thought to yield the benefits of all 24 Ekadashis throughout the year, leading to salvation, joy, and prosperity. Additionally, acts of charity on this day are considered particularly impactful, helping to alleviate financial difficulties.

As per the Panchang, the Ekadashi date will commence on June 6, 2025, at 2:15 PM and conclude on June 7, 2025, at 4:47 AM. The primary observance will take place on June 6, based on Udayatithi, although the Vaishnav community may also celebrate on June 7.

The ideal times for worship include Brahma Muhurta from 4:02 AM to 4:42 PM, Vijaya Muhurta from 2:39 PM to 3:35 PM, twilight Muhurta from 7:16 PM to 7:36 PM, and Nishita Muhurta from 12:00 PM to 12:40 PM. The Smarta community will observe the fast from 1:44 PM to 4:31 PM on June 7, 2025, while the Vaishnav community will fast from 5:23 AM to 7:17 PM on June 8, 2025. This day is further blessed by the conjunction of Ravi Yoga, Bhadrawas, and Vriyan Yoga, enhancing the significance of devotion and charity.

The fast will be broken on June 8, 2025, between 5:22 AM and 7:20 AM. During the fasting period, devotees are encouraged to seek Lord Krishna's blessings by donating food, water, clothing, and other essentials to those in need.

The Nirjala Ekadashi fast is particularly challenging as it involves abstaining from both food and water. On this day, devotees should wake up during Brahma Muhurta, take a bath, and wear clean attire. After remembering Lord Vishnu, they should commit to fasting. The worship area should be purified with Ganga water, and an idol or image of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi should be placed on a yellow or red cloth. Offerings may include Tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, panchamrit, sandalwood, sugar candy, incense, lamps, and coconut. Finally, an aarti should be performed for Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Devotees are encouraged to chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya' and may also recite the Vishnu Sahasranama. A particularly powerful mantra to recite is:
'Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare! Hare Ram Hare Ram, Ram Ram Hare Hare!'

According to scriptures, observing Ekadashi with utmost respect involves refraining from all food and drink throughout the day, allowing devotees to immerse themselves fully in the devotion of Lord Vishnu.