Devuthani Ekadashi

Religious festival, Vrat (fasting day), Auspicious day
Not a gazetted public holiday, but widely observed religious festival
1 Day

Marks the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his four-month cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra) during Chaturmas. It signifies the end of an inauspicious period and the beginning of the Hindu wedding season and other auspicious events.

Key Rituals & Practices

Observing a strict fast (Vrat), often Nirjala (without water) or Phalahari (fruits only).

Worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Performing the 'awakening' ritual for Lord Vishnu, often involving ringing bells and blowing a conch.

Lighting lamps (diyas) and decorating homes.

Performing Tulsi Vivah (ritual marriage of Tulsi plant with Lord Shaligram/Vishnu) – often performed on this day or the following day.

Offering sugarcane, water chestnuts (singhara), and seasonal fruits to deities.

Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama and other Vishnu mantras.

Associated Deities

Lord Vishnu
Goddess Lakshmi
Tulsi (Basil plant)
Shaligram

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Kartik

Paksha

Shukla Paksha

Tithi

Ekadashi (11th day)

Regional Relevance & Variations

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Historical & Mythological Context

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu goes into a deep cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on Shayani Ekadashi (the 11th day of Ashadha Shukla Paksha) for four months, a period known as Chaturmas. Devuthani Ekadashi marks his awakening from this sleep. This period is considered inauspicious for major life events like marriages. His awakening signifies the return of auspiciousness. The Tulsi Vivah ceremony is linked to the legend of Vrinda, who was cursed to become a plant (Tulsi) and later blessed to be eternally dear to Vishnu.

Alternative Names

Prabodhini Ekadashi
Dev Uthani Gyaras
Kartik Ekadashi

Gregorian Date

Varies annually, typically in October or November (usually 11th day of Kartik Shukla Paksha)