Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Hari Shayani Ekadashi or Ashadhi Ekadashi, is a significant day in the Sanatan Dharma calendar. It marks the commencement of Chaturmas, a four-month period dedicated to spiritual practices and introspection. In 2025, Devshayani Ekadashi falls on July 6th.
🌙 The Legend of Devshayani Ekadashi
According to the Bhavishyottara Purana, Lord Krishna narrated the significance of Devshayani Ekadashi to Yudhishthira, recounting the tale of King Mandhata. The king’s kingdom suffered from a severe drought for three years. Upon sage Angiras’s advice, the king observed the Devshayani Ekadashi fast with devotion. Pleased by his penance, Lord Vishnu blessed the kingdom with rainfall, ending the drought.
🛌 Lord Vishnu’s Divine Slumber
On this auspicious day, it is believed that Lord Vishnu enters a state of yogic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on the cosmic serpent Shesha, resting in the Kshira Sagara (Ocean of Milk). This period of divine slumber lasts for four months, concluding on Prabodhini Ekadashi. During this time, devotees focus on spiritual growth and refrain from auspicious ceremonies.
🕉️ Significance of Chaturmas
Chaturmas, meaning “four months,” is a sacred period in Hinduism starting from Devshayani Ekadashi and ending on Prabodhini Ekadashi. It coincides with the monsoon season in India. During Chaturmas, devotees engage in penance, fasting, and spiritual practices, aiming for self-purification and spiritual advancement.
🙏 Rituals and Observances
- Fasting: Devotees observe a fast, abstaining from grains, beans, and certain vegetables.
- Worship: Special prayers and rituals are performed to honor Lord Vishnu, seeking his blessings for prosperity and spiritual growth.
- Tulsi Offering: Offering Tulsi (holy basil) leaves to Lord Vishnu is considered highly auspicious on this day.
- Charity: Donating food and essentials to the needy is encouraged, promoting compassion and selflessness.
🌿 Cultural Celebrations
In Maharashtra, the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage culminates on Devshayani Ekadashi. Thousands of devotees, known as Warkaris, walk to the town of Pandharpur, singing devotional songs in praise of Lord Vitthala, a form of Lord Vishnu.
✨ Spiritual Importance
Observing Devshayani Ekadashi and the subsequent Chaturmas period is believed to cleanse one’s sins, bring peace and prosperity, and pave the way for spiritual liberation (Moksha). It is a time for introspection, self-discipline, and deepening one’s connection with the divine.
May this Devshayani Ekadashi inspire you to embark on a journey of spiritual growth and inner peace.
