Fast special- Nirjala Ekadashi

Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Jeshtha month is called Nirjala Ekadashi. There is a provision regarding this that fruits can be consumed on Ekadashi of other months. But on this Ekadashi, consuming not only fruits but also water is prohibited.This Ekadashi falls during summer time, which is completed with great pain and penance. According to legends, observing this fast increases lifespan and health.    
According to Mahabharata, if due to some reasons, one cannot observe the fast of twenty-sixth Ekadashi of a year including Adhik Maas(Extra month), then by observing fast only on Nirjala Ekadashi, complete results are achieved. According to a narrative in the Mahabharata, Bhimsen was the most powerful among the Pandavas. There was a gastric fire called Vrik in his stomach. That is why he is also called Vrikodaar.          
Bhima was powerful since birth. By going to the snake world and drinking the juice of the ten ponds there, he gained strength equal to ten thousand elephants. Due to its effect, their ability to digest food as well as their appetite had increased.  Pandavas and Draupadi, all others used to fast on Ekadashi. But it was difficult for Bhima to observe Ekadashi fast. Because he could not bear hunger.
Therefore, Vyas ji decided for him that the fast on Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Bhima Jeshtha month should remain waterless. The benefit and result from this will be equal to the Ekadashis of the year. As per the orders of Vyas Muni, Bhimsen started this Ekadashi fast.That is why this Nirjala Ekadashi is also called Bhimseni Ekadashi.

(Writer is a renouned Astrologer, Vastu consultant & spritual healer. He is based in Pune. His nos are-9425006196,7574885030)