Bhim Ekadasi, also known as Nirjala Ekadashi, is observed during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Jyeshta month. In 2025, the date of Bhim Ekadasi is June 6/June 7. This Ekadasi is dedicated to Bhima, the second among the Pandavas. It is believed that observing Bhim Ekadasi is equal to observing all the 24 Ekadasis.
Ekadasi fasting is observed on the 11th day of a fortnight in a traditional Hindu calendar and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Legend has it that once Bhima, the second among the Pandava brothers, wanted to find a solution to fast on Ekadasi by consuming food and he went to Sage Vyasa to find a solution. Bhima could not control hunger and therefore it was impossible from him to observe Ekadasi fasting.
Veda Vyasa advised Bhima to observe Nirjala Ekadasi falling in the Shukla Paksha of Jyeshta Month. It has the benefits of observing all the 24 Ekadasis in a year.
Bhim Ekadasi fasting is very tough and different from the usual Ekadasi fasting method. Devotees do not drink water on the day. Neither do they eat anything for the entire day. The fasting is from sunrise to next day (Dwadasi) morning sunrise.
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