Why is Nirjala Ekadashi considered the most special and virtuous fast among all the 24 Ekadashi? Know mythological stories

In Hindu religion, Nirjala Ekadashi is considered a very auspicious and fruitful fast. This fast is observed on the Ekadashi date of Shukla Paksha of Jyeshtha month and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is considered the most difficult among all Ekadashis, because on this day devotees worship Lord Shri Hari by sacrificing food as well as water.

According to religious beliefs, by observing Nirjala Ekadashi properly one gets the same virtue as all the Ekadashis of the year. Let us know about some famous mythological stories related to this special fast and its importance.

Nirjala Ekadashi became famous because of Bhimsen

• During the Mahabharata period, when Maharishi Ved Vyas told the Pandavas the importance of Ekadashi fast, then everyone resolved to observe it. But Bhimsen, the strongest among the Pandavas, had a big problem. He told Vyas ji that he feels extremely hungry and is unable to fast. After listening to Bhima, Maharishi Vyas told him a special solution. He said that if they cannot fast on all the Ekadashis of the year, then they should fast only on Nirjala Ekadashi of Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha with full devotion. With the effect of this one fast, they will get the same results as all the Ekadashis.
• It is believed that Bhimsen followed the orders of Vyas ji and observed this difficult waterless fast and he attained great virtue. Since then this Ekadashi is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi or Pandava Ekadashi. It is said that by chanting the mantra “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya” on this day, one gets the special blessings of Lord Vishnu and many of the sins of the person are destroyed.

Story of Devarshi Narad and Nirjala fast

According to another mythological story, in the initial period of creation, Devarshi Narad was always engrossed in the devotion of Lord Vishnu. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Brahma asked him to ask for a boon. Then Narad ji expressed his desire that he should be told such a means by which he could attain the highest position at the feet of Lord Vishnu.

Lord Brahma advised him to fast on Nirjala Ekadashi, the favorite of Lord Vishnu. Narad ji observed this fast with complete dedication and devotion. Pleased with his rigorous penance and unwavering devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared and blessed him with his selfless devotion. There is a religious belief that through this story one gets the message of the glory of Nirjala fast and receiving the blessings of Lord Vishnu.