Ekadashi fast has a special place in Hindu religion, which is considered very auspicious for the worship of Lord Vishnu. Of these, the most difficult and virtuous fast is considered to be Nirjala Ekadashi, which falls in the month of Jyeshtha and in which fasting is done without water.
In the year 2026, the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed after Adhikamaas. According to the Panchang, this fast falls on Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi Tithi and on this day devotees observe a strict fast by giving up both water and food for the whole day. The fast is concluded by doing Parana the next day.
According to religious beliefs, Nirjala Ekadashi is considered to be the most fruitful among all the Ekadashis. It is said that if a person is not able to observe all the Ekadashis of the year, then by fasting only on Nirjala Ekadashi one can attain the same virtue as on all the Ekadashis.
Now the question also arises whether Ekadashi fast can be started from Nirjala Ekadashi? If seen from religious point of view, any person can start the fast from any Ekadashi. But Nirjala Ekadashi is considered to be the most difficult fast, hence only experienced fast keepers often observe it with full devotion and preparation.
The traditions of Hinduism state that the purpose of Ekadashi fast is not just fasting, but purification of mind, body and soul. Therefore it is advisable to adopt it gradually with the rules.
On the day of Nirjala Ekadashi, devotees worship Lord Vishnu, do bhajan-kirtan and do charity. On this day, special importance is given to donating water and helping the needy.
Overall, the fast of Nirjala Ekadashi 2026 is a symbol of spiritual discipline and faith, which gives the message of restraint, devotion and spiritual strength to the devotees.