Nirjala Ekadashi 2025: Devotees take holy dip at Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri

Devotees take holy dip at Haridwar’s Har Ki Pauri

A sea of devotees gathered at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar on Friday to mark the auspicious occasion of Nirjala Ekadashi, one of the most spiritually significant days in the Hindu calendar. Pilgrims from various corners of the country thronged the banks of the Ganga River to take a sacred dip and seek blessings.

Coming just a day after the celebration of Ganga Dussehra, the two-day spiritual fervour saw overwhelming participation as devotees offered prayers to Maa Ganga, recited hymns, and performed the ritualistic snan (bath). The back-to-back holy days led to a significant increase in footfall at the historic ghat.

Many devotees traveled long distances to be part of the holy celebration. To manage the large gathering, local authorities ensured smooth coordination, deploying security personnel and crowd control teams to avoid any untoward incident.

Nirjala Ekadashi, observed during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Jyeshtha, is known for its intense fasting ritual. The word “Nirjala” literally means “without water,” highlighting the strict upvas undertaken by devotees. Of all the 24 Ekadashis observed annually, this one is believed to carry the most merit and is revered for its spiritual rigor.