Mumbai: There is a special significance to the observance of Ekadashi in Hinduism. As Mondays are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The worship of Lord Vishnu on this day is believed to fulfil all desires. A total of 24 Ekadashis are observed in a year, with Nirjala Ekadashi being the most important. As per tradition, observing Nirjala Ekadashi yields the benefits of all 24 Ekadashis combined.
Nirjala Ekadashi Fast
Fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi involves abstaining from water altogether. Due to this, the fast is quite challenging. There are strict rules associated with Nirjala Ekadashi in addition to fasting. It is important to know the exact procedure and timing for breaking the fast if you are planning to observe this fast. In addition, there are a few things to keep in mind before ending the fast.
Nirjala Ekadashi date and time 2024
As per the Hindu calendar, the Ekadashi tithi of Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Jyeshtha begins at 4:43 AM on June 17 and ends at 6:24 AM on June 18. Thus, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on Monday, June 18, 2024.
When breaking the Ekadashi fast, the end of the Dwadashi tithi must be taken into consideration.
It is customary to break the vrat (paran) before Dwadashi Tithi. It is, therefore, prohibited to break the fast during the Hari Vasara period. Hari Vasara occurs between Ekadashi and Dwadashi and is considered inauspicious for fasting.
Nirjala Ekadashi offers the collective benefits of all 24 Ekadashis for those who did not observe all 24 throughout the year. It is believed that observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast provides the benefits of all other Ekadashis and absolves one of his sins.
Timing for Breaking the Nirjala Ekadashi Fast
The Nirjala Ekadashi fast for 2024 can be broken on Wednesday, June 19, between 5:24 AM and 7:28 AM.
How to Break the Nirjala Ekadashi Fast
Nirjala Ekadashi fast, or Parana, should be broken according to the prescribed rituals:
On the day of Parana, rise before sunrise, bathe, and wear clean clothes before offering water to the sun god, Surya.
Before breaking the fast, worship Lord Vishnu, chanting the ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’ mantra.
If you made any mistakes during the fast, apologise to Lord Vishnu.
Before breaking the fast, offer water to the sun and worship Vishnu.
After breaking the fast, consume rice as your first meal. On this day, rice is considered auspicious.
In addition to rice, other foods can be consumed afterwards.
After breaking the fast, rice and money can also be donated to those in need.
Rules for Observing Nirjala Ekadashi
During Nirjala Ekadashi fasting, food and water are not consumed, hence the name ‘Nirjala’ (without water). Fasts are broken after sunrise the next morning. Breaking the fast before the end of Dwadashi tithi (the 12th day of the lunar fortnight) is essential. When Dwadashi ends before sunrise, the fast should be broken after sunrise. In the Hindu tradition, failing to break the fast within the Dwadashi period is considered sinful.
As devotees prepare to observe Nirjala Ekadashi this year, they seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings and favour for a fulfilling spiritual year.
Prepare for Nirjala Ekadashi 2024, the strictest of all Ekadashi fasts! This article unveils the date (June 18th), vrat vidhi (rituals) for observing the fast, and the spiritual significance of Nirjala Ekadashi. Discover its benefits and celebrate this holy occasion for inner peace and spiritual growth. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
