OM Ashram Glows in Devotion – A Joyful Celebration of Nirjala Ekadashi

Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the most sacred and spiritually rewarding fasts in the Hindu calendar. Falling during the intense summer, this Ekadashi is unique—devotees undertake a fast without food or water to honour Lord Vishnu and seek His divine blessings for well-being, purity, and salvation.

in Rajasthan, women actively participate in this sacred tradition. Dressed in vibrant attire, they gather in temples to sing bhajans and hymns, dance with joy, and fill the air with devotional energy. Their collective faith creates an atmosphere charged with divine vibrations. This was also evident at the Shiva Temple of OM Ashram.

After performing puja and participating in aarti, women offer water to the roots of the Peepal tree, symbolizing life, devotion, and humility.

On the altar of the Shiva temple, a story of profound devotion and humility unfolds: Lord Vishnu worshipped Lord Shiva by offering 1,008 lotus flowers. When Shiva secretly removed one to test him, Vishnu plucked out his own eye—replacing the missing lotus—to complete the offering. This ultimate act of devotion symbolized his unwavering faith.

On this auspicious day, devotees offer to Lord Vishnu fresh flowers, homemade sweets, chandan (sandalwood paste), Tulsi leaves, and a desi ghee diya. Tulsi is a must in every offering, as it is especially dear to Lord Vishnu.

This Ekadashi is also known as Bhima Ekadashi. According to legend, Bhima, the second Pandava, couldn’t fast regularly due to his great appetite. Sage Vyasa instructed him to observe just one Nirjala Ekadashi, which would grant him the merit of all others. Since then, this day has held immense significance.

It is believed that if one cannot observe all twenty-four Ekadashis in a year, observing just Nirjala Ekadashi equals the merit of all combined. Such is the strength of this spiritual discipline.

🌿 May the blessings of Nirjala Ekadashi bring devotion, strength, and purity, into your life. Hari OM. 🙏