Nirjala Ekadashi 2026 set for June 25; water prohibited during fast

Nirjala Ekadashi, a strict Hindu fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu, will be observed on June 25, 2026. Devotees abstain from food, water and even fruit from sunrise on the day until the next sunrise. The fast is considered especially difficult because it coincides with the hot summer months, and participants may face health issues if they do not drink water.

Traditional guidance allows those who are ill, elderly, children or whose health would be jeopardised to break the fast with fruit or water. On the day of the fast, worship of the tulsi (holy basil) plant should not include offering water, as the plant is also believed to be fasting; water offerings are instead recommended on the following day, the dwadashi (June 26). Various yogas – Ravi, Shiva and Siddh – are said to be present on the day, which many believe enhances the spiritual benefit of the observance.

The observance is expected to attract a large number of devotees across India, who will follow these prescribed rituals and exceptions.