Devshayani Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi (also known as Harishayani Ekadashi or Padma Ekadashi) is a major fast and festival in Hinduism. It is celebrated on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashadha, which usually falls in the month of June or July. This day marks the beginning of Chaturmas, and according to the belief, Lord Vishnu sleeps in Kshirsagar and remains in Yog Nidra for four months. These four months are called Chaturmas, during which marriage, Upanayana and other auspicious functions are considered prohibited.

Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

Sleep of Lord Vishnu: On this day, Lord Vishnu goes into Yog Nidra on the bed of Sheshnag in Kshirsagar. They sleep till Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Kartik month (called Devuthani Ekadashi). This period is called Chaturmas, in which religious activities, penance, and meditation have special importance. Start of Chaturmas: Chaturmas begins from Devshayani Ekadashi. All the gods and goddesses also rest during this four-month period. This time is used especially for religion, devotion, and meditation. Auspicious functions (such as marriages etc.) are not organized during this period. Significance of fasting: The fast of Devshayani Ekadashi is considered to be very virtuous. By fasting on this day and worshiping Lord Vishnu, a person gets freedom from all sins and attains salvation. This day is especially auspicious for the devotees who observe fast.

Story of Devshayani Ekadashi

According to a legend associated with Devshayani Ekadashi, in the Satyuga, there was a famine in the kingdom of a king Mandhata, due to which the subjects of his kingdom were troubled. The king consulted Maharishi Angira to know the solution to this crisis. Maharishi advised him to observe the fast of Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi. King Mandhata observed the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi as told by Maharishi, and due to its effect, it started raining in his kingdom and all the troubles of the people ended. Thus, Devshayani Ekadashi fast is considered very important for freedom from troubles and attainment of happiness and prosperity.

Worship method of Devshayani Ekadashi

Vrat and Upvaas: On this day, devotees observe fast for Lord Vishnu. Devotees who observe the fast worship Lord Vishnu after taking bath in the morning. The main purpose of fasting is spiritual purification and devotion to God. Puja and Bhajan: Devotees light a lamp in front of the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu and recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Vishnu Stotra. On this day, hymns and kirtans of Lord Vishnu have special significance. Tulsi Puja: Along with the worship of Lord Vishnu, Tulsi is also worshipped, because Tulsi is considered to be the favorite of Lord Vishnu. Offering Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu gives special results of the fast. Ratri Jagran: Many devotees perform Ratri Jagran on this day and remain engaged in the worship of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that devotees who perform Jagran with full devotion receive special blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Benefits of Devshayani Ekadashi

Freedom from sins: By observing the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi, a person gets freedom from the sins committed in life. By fasting on this day, all the troubles of a person are eliminated and he attains salvation. Devotion and observance of religion: Through this fast, the devotee expresses his devotion and dedication towards Lord Vishnu. This fast inspires a person to follow the path of religion and maintain restraint, peace, and balance in life. Spiritual advancement: By observing this fast, a person's spiritual advancement takes place and he surrenders at the feet of God. This fast helps him to get free from worldly bonds and attain spiritual peace.

Importance of Chaturmas

The period of Chaturmas is from Devshayani Ekadashi to Devuthani Ekadashi, in which Lord Vishnu is in Yognidra. During this time, religious practice, devotion, and fasting have special importance. In Chaturmas, people stay away from pleasures and follow self-restraint. During this period, sages and saints also stay in their ashrams and remain engrossed in meditation and devotion. Devshayani Ekadashi is a very important day in Hinduism, which marks the sleep of Lord Vishnu and the beginning of Chaturmas. This fast not only liberates from sins, but also inspires devotees to follow the path of religion, devotion, and spirituality in life. By fasting and worshiping on this day, a person receives the special blessings of Lord Vishnu and attains salvation.