India, June 25 -- Nirjala Ekadashi is one of the most important fasting observances in Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the festival is known for its strict practice of fasting without food or water from sunrise until the fast is broken the next day. Millions of Hindus in India and around the world observe the day with prayers, meditation, charitable acts, and visits to temples.

The Sanskrit word "Nirjala" means "without water," making this the strictest of all Ekadashi fasts. While there are twenty-four Ekadashis observed during the Hindu lunar year, Nirjala Ekadashi holds a special place because it is believed to carry the spiritual benefits of observing all of them.

According to astrologer Hitesh Mahawar, this belief is why many p...