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:

"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. 🙏