You could call it the most demanding of the Ekadashi fasts since even water is off limits. On 25 June 2026, with several auspicious yogas in play, devotees are making their way through this particular vrat, which is held in high esteem for the merit it brings.
When to observe and key timings
The Udaya tithi has us keeping the fast on 25 June 2026. If you look at the Panchang, the tithi for Ekadashi is in effect from 8:09 pm on the 24th until 9:14 pm on the 25th.
Some will have you mark the start of the Tithi at 6:12 PM on June 24. As for the Dwadashi, you’ll be doing your Parana then, in the fine hours between 5:25 am and 8:13 am on 26 June.
If you want to be up for the early rites, Brahma Muhurat is 4:05 to 4:45 am. Abhijit Muhurat is later, from 11:56 am to 12:52 pm.
Why Nirjala Ekadashi matters
‘Nirjala’ means no water, and the vrat is well known for being a test of sorts. ISKCON has it that if you put in the work and the discipline on this one, you are given the rewards of all 24 in a year.
You may also hear it called Bhimseni or Pandava Ekadashi, a nod to the Mahabharata and what it says about resolve and making up for any fasts you’ve let slip. It is in the Shukla Paksha of Jyeshtha and is for the worship of Vishnu.
Do’s and don’ts for the fast
It is a no-nonsense affair but not overcomplicated; you have your prayers, your charity, and your restraint. It is as much about the spirit of it as the rules. Here is what to bear in mind:
– No food, no water
– Some time with the scriptures and Vishnu mantras
– Be charitable, with water or sharbat for instance
– Stay away from tamasic fare and anything to rouse you
– Put a stop to ill temper, untruths and sharp tongues
– Leave the hard labour and heavy workouts for another day
– Make sure you are well-hydrated the night before
Puja vidhi and preparation
Get ahead of it the day before with a light, sattvic kind of meal and enough to drink. When the day comes, have a bath in the Brahma Muhurat and make your sankalp before the Lord for the good of you and your kin.
Set up an altar for Vishnu and Lakshmi, see to the Tulsi, the flowers, the sandalwood, the incense and lamps. Have your panchamrit and naivedya ready. A little kirtan or japa will do to keep the mind at ease.
Legend and this year’s yogas
There is a story to it with Bhima, the second of the Pandavas and a man of considerable appetite. He found it hard to fast every time, so Vyasa told him to at least see to the Nirjala Ekadashi. He did, and that has been the example ever since.
Auspicious yogas on 25 June
By the Vedic reckoning, you have the Shiva, Ravi and Siddha yogas in there. Ravi Yoga is with us from 5:25 am to 4:29 pm. Shiva and Siddha come in at 10:22 am and 10:53 am respectively and last the rest of the day.
We are on a Thursday this year, which is fitting for Vishnu. It is a hallowed mix for any bhakti you put into it.
Bhadra influence and what to expect
The Panchang puts Bhadra down for 7:08 to 8:09 pm. But astrologers will tell you it is in Paatal Lok, so it won’t stand in the way of your puja or fast.
The word is to be level-headed and not push yourself too hard. Turn to your devotion. And in the heat of the season, there is no better way to show your charity than to give some water to those in need.
Breaking the fast correctly
Your Parana is set for 26 June. You have the slot from 5:25 to 8:13 am to do it by the book and bring the observance to a close.
For a lot of people, this is more than just a matter of willpower. It is a chance to clear the air with your words and deeds, and to be a bit more in control of yourself and your compassion.
