Question 1

What if someone cannot fast without water on Nirjala Ekadashi?

Accepted Answer

The waterless fast is the ideal observance, but children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions may observe a regular Ekadashi fast (avoiding grains, eating fruits) instead. The intention and sincerity of devotion matter more than the degree of austerity.

Question 2

Is Nirjala Ekadashi the same as a regular Ekadashi?

Accepted Answer

No. Regular Ekadashis are observed by avoiding grains but permitting water and fruits. Nirjala Ekadashi is uniquely strict — no water is consumed at all. Its merit is correspondingly much greater in tradition.