Nirjala Ekadashi: The Auspicious Fasting Day for Spiritual Progress and Blessings

Nirjala Ekadashi: The Auspicious Fasting Day for Spiritual Progress and Blessings

Nirjala Ekadashi, known as the most auspicious and virtuous among all 24 Ekadashis, holds great significance in Hinduism. It is believed that by observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast alone, one attains virtue equal to that of observing all the other Ekadashi fasts combined. This special fasting day occurs every year on the Ekadashi date of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Jyestha.

In the year 2023, Nirjala Ekadashi fast will be observed on the 31st of May. According to the Panchang (Hindu calendar), the Ekadashi date of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Jyestha begins at 01:07 pm on Tuesday, 30th May, and ends the next day on Wednesday, 31st May, at 01:45 pm. Based on the Udaya Tithi (sunrise timing), Nirjala Ekadashi will be celebrated on the 31st of May, 2023.

The significance of Nirjala Ekadashi is described in scriptures as the most auspicious and virtuous among all the Ekadashis. The term "Nirjala" itself signifies the strictness of this fast, as it involves abstaining not only from food but also from drinking water. Hence, it is called Nirjala Ekadashi. This makes it one of the most challenging and demanding Ekadashi fasts.

Do's on Nirjala Ekadashi:

1. Mentally prepare yourself for the difficulty of the fast, especially considering the high temperatures that typically accompany the month of Jyestha.
2. Refrain from consuming meat, alcohol, and tamasic (impure) food items on the day preceding the fast.
3. Practice self-restraint, celibacy, and engage in acts of charity.
4. Donate an urn filled with water, symbolizing the importance of water as a life-giving resource.
5. Offer water to thirsty people.
6. Arrange water and grains for animals and birds, either by placing them under the roof of your house or under a tree in an open space.

Don'ts on Nirjala Ekadashi:

• Avoid sweeping the house on this day to prevent harm to small creatures like insects, kites, ants, and disrupt their habitats.
• Even if someone has not observed the Nirjala Ekadashi fast, it is recommended to abstain from consuming rice on this day.
• Avoid consuming vegetables such as brinjal, carrot, turnip, and others, as they are prohibited.

By adhering to these guidelines and observing the Nirjala Ekadashi fast with utmost devotion, individuals can experience the spiritual and auspicious benefits associated with this significant day in the Hindu calendar. The strictness and challenges of this fast demonstrate the strength of one's commitment and determination to seek divine blessings, purify the mind, and attain spiritual progress.

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