Nirjala Ekadashi Mahatmyam | Bhima–Vyasa Dialogue | Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi Story

🙏 Nirjala Ekadashi 🙏

Bhima–Vyasa Dialogue from the Brahma Vaivarta Purana

During the Dvapara Yuga, Bhima, the second of Kunti's sons, once approached the great sage Sri Veda Vyasa and humbly asked:

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"O revered grandfather!
I kindly request you to listen to my humble plea.

My elder brother Dharmaraja Yudhishthira, my mother Kunti Devi, my younger brothers Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva, as well as Draupadi—all of them observe the Ekadashi fast every month. They remain fasting, constantly chant the holy names of Lord Krishna, and thus sanctify their lives.

However, I am always inclined towards food. Therefore, my mother, my elder brother, my younger brothers, and Draupadi all urge me to observe the Ekadashi fast as well.

But because the 'Vrikagni' (powerful digestive fire) burns within my stomach, I am unable to observe the Ekadashi fast. I fear that fasting may even endanger my life. Therefore, please tell me if there is any other noble way by which I can obtain the spiritual merits of Ekadashi without observing the fast."

In response, Sage Vyasa said:

"O Bhima! If you truly desire to endure hardships, become free from the sufferings of hell, and attain the eternal peace of the divine abode of the Lord, then you must observe both Ekadashis that occur every month without fail."

Hearing these words, Bhima became anxious and replied:

"O revered grandfather! I do not know what to do. It is impossible for me to fast on every Ekadashi. I can, however, observe only one Ekadashi fast."

Then Sage Vyasa instructed him:

"O Bhima! When the Sun is transiting through Taurus or Gemini, the Shukla Ekadashi of the month of Jyeshtha occurs. This sacred Ekadashi is known as Nirjala Ekadashi.

By observing this single Ekadashi, one attains the merit of observing all the Ekadashi fasts of the remaining months. One should spend the day listening to the holy names, divine form, transcendental qualities, and sacred pastimes of the Supreme Lord. One should engage in chanting and constant remembrance of the Lord. By doing so, one's life becomes truly blessed.

At the time of death, the Vishnu Dutas (messengers of Lord Vishnu) come near those who have faithfully observed this vow and take them to Vaikuntha."

Following the instructions of Sage Vyasa, Bhima observed the Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi fast.

The Nirjala Ekadashi observed by Bhima later became widely renowned as "Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi."

The Puranas declare that those who observe the Nirjala Ekadashi Vrata with sincere faith and devotion, and who hear, chant, and remember its divine glories, attain the supreme abode of Vaikuntha.

Svasti 🙏

Through Sri Sadguru Peetham...... ✍️

May all beings in all the worlds be happy. 🙏

Frequently asked questions

Why is Nirjala Ekadashi called Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi?

As commonly told, Bhima observed this Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi fast on Sage Vyasa's instruction. His fast later became widely renowned as Pandava Nirjala Ekadashi.

When does Nirjala Ekadashi occur?

It is the Shukla Ekadashi of the month of Jyeshtha, when the Sun is transiting through Taurus or Gemini. The exact date follows the Hindu calendar, so check the local panchang.

Why could Bhima not fast on every Ekadashi?

Bhima said the powerful digestive fire called Vrikagni burns in his stomach and that he is always inclined towards food. He feared fasting might endanger his life, so he asked Vyasa for another way.

What merit does Nirjala Ekadashi give?

Vyasa says that observing this single Ekadashi gives the merit of all the Ekadashi fasts of the remaining months. Those who observe the vow faithfully are taken to Vaikuntha by the Vishnu Dutas at the time of death.

How should the day of Nirjala Ekadashi be spent?

One should spend the day listening to the holy names, divine form, qualities and sacred pastimes of the Lord. Chanting and constant remembrance of the Lord are also advised.

Can NRIs observe Nirjala Ekadashi abroad?

The story gives no location restriction. Devotees in the USA, UK or elsewhere can follow the same observance, checking a local panchang for the Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi date.