Ekadashi fast is a special place in Hinduism. This fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and doing this paves the way for freedom from sins and spiritual progress. There are a total of 24 Ekadashi in a year, that is, there are two Ekadashi dates every month. One of these 24 Ekadashi is a special Ekadashi called Nirjala Ekadashi. Its importance is so big that it is considered as fruitful as all 24 Ekadashi fasts of the year.
Importance of Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala means “without water”. On this day, the fasts neither drink water throughout the day nor take any other food. This fast is considered to be the medium of purifying the body and mind as well as the special grace of Lord Vishnu. A person who observes this fast with full devotion, gets the fruits of all the Ekadashi fasts of the year.
Rules of Nirjala Ekadashi
Water fast: On this day, any kind of water eclipse is forbidden for 24 hours. If someone drinks water, the fast breaks.
Grain and fruit forbidden: Fruits, grains, juices or any food should not be taken on this day.
Purification and restraint: During the fast, a person has to keep both mind and body pure.
Pooja and Bhakti: Vrati worships Lord Vishnu all day and asks for blessings from them.
Sandhya and morning chanting mantra: It is mandatory to chant the mantras of Lord Vishnu in the morning and evening along with the fast.
Powerful mantra chanting during Nirjala Ekadashi fast
If for some reason you are not able to keep the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi completely, then you can chant the following mantras of Lord Vishnu in the morning and evening. This gives the spiritual fruit of the fast and the grace of God remains.
Sri Vishnu Mantra
Invocation and Obeisance to Lord Krishna
It is considered to be the most powerful Vishnu mantra. Chanting this provides the safety and blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Gopal mantra
Om Gopalaya Namah
This mantra is for Lord Krishna (incarnation of Vishnu), which brings prosperity and prosperity to life.
Dasavatar mantra
Om Dasavatarai Namah
It is a mantra dedicated to ten incarnations, which protects the person from negative forces.
Vishnu Sahasranama Stotra
Vishnu Sahasranama is especially recited during the Ekadashi fast. Its lesson gives a person psychological peace and spiritual strength.
Why is Nirjala Ekadashi special?
The specialty of Nirjala Ekadashi is that this fast is observed without water, which is considered to be the most rigid and difficult for the body. Therefore it is also called ‘Best Ekadashi’. This fast is a symbol of self-control, penance and devotion. It is believed that the fast performed on this day washes any sin and brings happiness and prosperity in a person’s life.
conclusion
Nirjala Ekadashi fast is not only important from religious point of view, but it is also a medium of mental and physical purification. By following the rules of fasting, chanting the mantras of Lord Vishnu brings peace to the mind and brings positive energy in life.
If you are unable to keep this fast completely, then chant the mantras of Lord Vishnu regularly. This will give you the spiritual fruit of the fast and your wishes will be fulfilled.
Invocation and Obeisance to Lord Krishna.
The grace of Lord Vishnu should always remain on you.