Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat 2025 Date: When is Pandava Ekadashi - June 6 or June 7?

Nirjala Ekadashi is also known as Pandava Ekadashi, Bhimseni Ekadashi, or Bhima Ekadashi—is considered the most sacred among the 24 Ekadashis observed in a year. The word Nirjala means “without water,” indicating that this fast is observed without food or even a drop of water, making it the toughest Ekadashi vrat. This year, Nirjala Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, June 6, 2025, while Vaishnava Nirjala Ekadashi will be marked a day later, on Saturday, June 7, 2025. It is one of the most significant and spiritually powerful Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar.

Devotees fast from sunrise to sunrise, displaying strong willpower and unwavering devotion. It is believed that observing Nirjala Ekadashi grants the same spiritual merit as observing all 24 Ekadashis in the year, making it especially significant for those unable to follow each one.

Legend Behind Pandava Ekadashi

According to ancient texts, the second Pandava prince Bhima, known for his great appetite, found it impossible to observe regular Ekadashi fasts. While the rest of the Pandavas and Draupadi followed Ekadashi vrat with devotion, Bhima struggled with his hunger. Disturbed by his inability to honour Lord Vishnu, Bhima sought guidance from Sage Vyasa, who advised him to observe one single Ekadashi—Nirjala Ekadashi—with full dedication and without consuming food or water. Doing so, said Vyasa, would earn him the blessings equal to observing all Ekadashis of the year.