Devshayani Ekadashi 2024: Hindus Observe Sacred Fast and Rituals to Honor Lord Vishnu’s Chaturmas Period

wccexam Desk

3 hours ago

Devshayani Ekadashi 2024: Date and Timing

In the Hindu calendar, the sacred festival of Devshayani Ekadashi will be observed on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. The Ekadashi tithi (lunar day) will begin at 8:33 PM on July 16th and end at 9:02 PM on July 17th.

The Parana, or the breaking of the fast, will take place on July 18th between 5:35 AM to 10:10 AM. The Dwadashi tithi (12th lunar day) will end at 8:44 PM on July 18th.

Devshayani Ekadashi 2024 Date and Timing

Event	Date and Time
Ekadashi Tithi Begins	July 16, 2024 at 8:33 PM
Ekadashi Tithi Ends	July 17, 2024 at 9:02 PM
Parana Time	July 18, 2024 from 5:35 AM to 10:10 AM
Dwadashi Tithi Ends	July 18, 2024 at 8:44 PM

The Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi, Harishayani Ekadashi, or Padmanabha Ekadashi, holds immense spiritual significance in the Hindu faith.

The Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, enters a state of Yoga Nidra (divine sleep) for four months.
This period of Lord Vishnu’s rest is known as Chaturmas, during which all auspicious activities are generally avoided.
Devotees observe strict fasts and engage in prayers and rituals to honor Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings.
It is believed that those who observe the Devshayani Ekadashi fast are freed from the cycle of birth and death and attain salvation (Moksha).

The legend behind Devshayani Ekadashi is rooted in Hindu mythology. According to the Puranas, Lord Brahma shared the story of Devshayani Ekadashi with Sage Narada.

The Vrat Katha of Devshayani Ekadashi

The story goes that during the reign of King Mandhata, his prosperous kingdom faced a severe famine for three consecutive years. Distressed by the suffering of his people, the king embarked on a journey to seek a solution. After meeting various religious figures, he encountered Sage Angira, who advised him to observe the Devshayani Ekadashi fast and worship Lord Vishnu.

The king followed the sage’s instructions, and as a result, the kingdom regained its prosperity, and the rains returned, bringing happiness and abundance. It is believed that Lord Vishnu bestows peace, pleasure, and prosperity on those who observe the Devshayani Ekadashi fast with devotion.

Rituals and Practices for Devshayani Ekadashi 2024

The observance of Devshayani Ekadashi involves a series of rituals and practices that devotees follow to honor Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings.

Preparatory Rituals

Wake up early in the morning and take a holy bath, avoiding the use of any soap or body wash.
Clean the house and prepare a sacred space to place the idol of Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna, or Laddoo Gopal.
Light a diya (lamp) with ghee and offer yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, and recite the Vishnu Sahasranam (thousand names of Lord Vishnu) and Vedic mantras.
Take a sankalpa (vow) to observe the fast with pure intentions.

Fasting and Worship

Observe a strict fast from sunrise on Ekadashi day until Parana (breaking of the fast) on Dwadashi day.
Refrain from consuming grains, legumes, and other prohibited food items during the fast.
Engage in the worship of Lord Vishnu, offering prayers, chanting mantras, and performing puja rituals.
Some devotees may also perform Vishnu Sahasranam Parayana (recitation of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu) during the fast.

Breaking the Fast

On the Dwadashi day, the fast is broken during the Parana time, which is from 5:35 AM to 10:10 AM on July 18, 2024.
Devotees can consume specific food items like fruits, milk, and other permitted items to break the fast. [4]

Chaturmas and Auspicious Activities

After Devshayani Ekadashi, the four-month period of Chaturmas begins, during which certain auspicious activities are generally avoided.
These include weddings, house-warming ceremonies, head-shaving rituals, and other major life events. [5]
It is believed that during Chaturmas, the worship of Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesha, and Goddess Durga is considered most auspicious.

The Spiritual and Practical Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi holds deep spiritual significance in the Hindu tradition, as it marks the beginning of a sacred period of introspection, devotion, and renewal.

Spiritual Significance

The belief that Lord Vishnu enters a state of Yoga Nidra (divine sleep) symbolizes the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and dissolution in the cosmic order.
By observing the fast and engaging in spiritual practices, devotees seek to align themselves with the divine rhythm of the universe and attain spiritual liberation (Moksha).
The fast and associated rituals are believed to purify the mind and body, helping devotees cultivate a deeper connection with the divine.

Practical Significance

The Chaturmas period that begins with Devshayani Ekadashi is a time of introspection and self-reflection, encouraging devotees to slow down and focus on their spiritual growth.
The avoidance of auspicious activities during this time allows for a more contemplative and introspective approach to life, fostering a sense of balance and harmony.
The fasting and dietary restrictions associated with Devshayani Ekadashi are believed to have health benefits, as they promote detoxification and rejuvenation of the body.

Devshayani Ekadashi is a profound and multifaceted festival in the Hindu tradition, offering devotees a unique opportunity to deepen their spiritual connection with the divine. Through the observance of fasts, rituals, and the embrace of the Chaturmas period, devotees can cultivate a sense of inner peace, renewal, and alignment with the cosmic order.

As we approach Devshayani Ekadashi 2024, let us reflect on the timeless wisdom and spiritual significance of this sacred festival, and strive to embody the values of devotion, introspection, and reverence for the divine that it represents.