Introduction to the Festival:
Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi, Hari Shayani Ekadashi, or Padma Ekadashi, falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashadha. This sacred day marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a spiritually significant four-month period during which Lord Vishnu is believed to enter a divine slumber (Yoga Nidra) in the cosmic ocean.
The Story Behind Devshayani Ekadashi:
As described in the Padma Purana, when the Devas were troubled by demons, they approached Lord Vishnu for help. Vishnu promised to protect them and instructed them to observe the vrat (fast) of Ashadhi Ekadashi to receive divine strength. It is said that observing this vrat gives the merit equivalent to performing 1000 Ashvamedha Yajnas.
On this day, Lord Vishnu is believed to lie down on the cosmic serpent Shesha in the Ksheer Sagar (milky ocean) and remains asleep until Prabodhini Ekadashi (Kartik Shukla Ekadashi), marking the beginning of His divine rest and the world's spiritual inward journey.
Why We Celebrate This Festival:
Devshayani Ekadashi is celebrated as a day of spiritual awakening and devotion. It emphasizes the importance of introspection, discipline, and detachment from worldly pleasures. This Ekadashi also marks the start of Chaturmas, during which auspicious ceremonies like weddings are avoided, and devotees commit to personal vows and spiritual growth.
Key Traditions of Devshayani Ekadashi:
Beginning of Chaturmas:
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Devotees take resolutions such as avoiding certain foods or habits for four months.
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Spiritual disciplines like silence, meditation, and scriptural reading are observed.
Pandharpur Wari Yatra:
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Millions of devotees walk from different parts of Maharashtra to the temple town of Pandharpur to offer prayers to Lord Vitthal-Rukmini (a form of Vishnu).
Temple Celebrations:
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Vishnu temples conduct night-long bhajans, kirtans, and recitations of Vishnu Sahasranama.
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A symbolic bed ("shayan") is prepared for Lord Vishnu to signify the start of His cosmic rest.
Fasting and Storytelling:
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Devotees fast and listen to the Ekadashi Vrat Katha at homes and temples.
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Many observe silence and focus on seva (service), prayer, and self-control.
Significance of the Festival:
Spiritual Elevation:
Fasting on this day is believed to cleanse sins, bring divine grace, and elevate the mind toward spiritual goals.
Inner Awakening:
While God rests, the soul is encouraged to awaken and seek self-realization.
Path of Dharma:
The festival inspires a life of righteousness, devotion, and self-discipline during the Chaturmas period.