Devshayani Ekadashi

Fasting Day (Vrat), Start of Chaturmas
Restricted Holiday
1 Day; One day (the Ekadashi)

This day marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a four-month period when Lord Vishnu is believed to enter a cosmic slumber. Auspicious ceremonies like marriages are generally avoided during this time, and devotees engage in increased spiritual practices, penance, and purification. Marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a four-month holy period when Lord Vishnu is believed to go into Yoga Nidra (divine sleep) on Shesha Naga in Ksheer Sagar. This period is dedicated to spiritual introspection and religious observances.

Key Rituals & Practices

Strict fasting

Worship of Lord Vishnu

Recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama

Beginning of Chaturmas vows and observances

Strict fasting (Nirjala Vrat - without water, or partial fast) observed by devotees.

Worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi with special pujas and offerings.

Recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama and chanting of Vishnu mantras (e.g., 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya').

Performing charity (donating food, clothes, or money) to the needy.

Many devotees observe a vigil (Jagran) through the night, singing bhajans and kirtans.

Marks the commencement of Chaturmas, during which auspicious ceremonies like marriages, housewarmings, or initiation ceremonies are generally avoided.

Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers or bodies of water.

Associated Deities

Lord Vishnu
Goddess Lakshmi
Lord Vithoba (Vitthal) in Maharashtra

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Ashadha

Paksha

Shukla

Tithi

Ekadashi

Regional Relevance & Variations

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Historical & Mythological Context

The legend states that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep on the Sheshnag in the cosmic ocean on this day. According to Hindu mythology, on this day, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, retires to his cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on the celestial serpent Shesha Naga in the cosmic ocean (Ksheer Sagar). He remains in this state for four months, a period known as Chaturmas, which concludes on Prabodhini Ekadashi. During Chaturmas, it is believed that the universe is governed by Lord Shiva. This period is considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices, penance, and self-control, as It's believed that the spiritual energies are heightened while the mundane activities are paused.

Alternative Names

Hari Shayani Ekadashi
Ashadhi Ekadashi
Shayani Ekadashi
Maha Ekadashi
Prathama Ekadashi
Padma Ekadashi

Gregorian Date

July 6, 2025