Nirjal or Pandaba Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadashi (Sanskrit: निर्जला एकादशी, romanized: Nirjalā Ekādaśī) is a Hindu holy day falling on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of the waxing fortnight of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha (May/June). This Ekadashi derives its name from the water-less (Nir-jala) fast observed on this day. It is considered to be the most austere and hence the most sacred of all 24 Ekadashi. If observed religiously, it is said to be the most rewarding and granting the virtue gained by the observance of all 24 Ekadashi in the year.

Significance: According to the Markandeya Purana and the Vishnu Purana, the day of Ekadashi is itself a form of Vishnu. The vrata observed on this day is said to wash away all sin. One who completes the vrata of Nirjala Ekadashi is mentioned to gain the favour of Vishnu, who grants him happiness, prosperity and forgiveness for sins. The devotee is described to receive the merit gained by the observance of all 24 Ekadashi in the year. It is most popular and strictly observed by the Vaishnavas, in particular.

The observer gains longevity and moksha (salvation). Usually, the messengers of the god of death Yama are described to fetch the person’s soul after death. Yama then judges the person’s deeds and sends him to Swarga (heaven) or Naraka (Hell). However, one who observes the Nirjala Ekadashi rituals is believed to be excused from Yama’s judgement and taken by messengers of Vishnu to Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu, after death.