Chaturmas (literally “Four Months”) is a spiritually significant period in the Hindu calendar, observed from Devshayani Ekadashi (Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi) to Devuthani Ekadashi (Kartik Shukla Ekadashi). These four months, usually from June/July to October/November, are considered sacred for penance, fasting, and intensified spiritual practices. During this time, Lord Vishnu is believed to be in a state of Yoga Nidra (divine sleep), making it a time for human spiritual awakening.
The Meaning & Beliefs Behind Chaturmas:
According to Hindu tradition, Chaturmas is a divine pause. As Lord Vishnu rests, devotees focus on inner awakening. Saints and sages, like Narad and Ved Vyas, are said to have performed deep penance during this time. This phase encourages a break from routine indulgences and re-centers life around dharma, bhakti, and seva (service).
Why We Observe Chaturmas:
Chaturmas is observed for:
-
Spiritual cleansing through self-discipline and simplicity.
-
Avoiding worldly distractions to focus on prayer and devotion.
-
Strengthening moral values and self-control.
-
Preparing the soul for deeper inner transformation.
It’s also believed that marriage ceremonies and celebrations should be avoided as a mark of reverence for the divine rest of Lord Vishnu.
Common Practices and Vows (Vratas):
Devotees often take specific vows for 1, 2, or all 4 months, such as:
-
Dietary restrictions: Giving up non-vegetarian food, onions, garlic, fried/oily food, or sweets.
-
Spiritual vows: Observing silence (mauna), celibacy, early rising, or daily chanting.
-
Daily reading: Bhagavad Gita, Ramayan, Vishnu Sahasranama, or performing extra mala-japa.
-
Charity and service: Donating to the poor, feeding cows, visiting temples or tirthas (pilgrimage sites).
Festivals During Chaturmas:
Several major Hindu festivals fall within Chaturmas:
-
Guru Purnima
-
Nag Panchami
-
Raksha Bandhan
-
Janmashtami
-
Ganesh Chaturthi
-
Navratri
-
Sharad Purnima
-
Tulsi Vivah (at the end with Devuthani Ekadashi)
Spiritual Message:
Chaturmas invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our divine purpose. Just as nature slows during monsoon, we are encouraged to retreat inward. It is a sacred time to realign habits, purify intentions, and deepen devotion.