Date: July 17, 2024, Wednesday
Month: Ashadha, Shukla Ekadashi
Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Harishayani Ekadashi, falls during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Ashadha. This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, and holds great significance in Hindu tradition.
Devshayani Ekadashi 2024 Muhurat and Parana Time
Start of Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi Tithi: July 16, Tuesday, 8:33 PM
End of Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi Tithi: July 17, Wednesday, 9:02 PM
Auspicious Time for Vishnu Puja: 5:34 AM
Devshayani Ekadashi Parana Time: July 18, from 5:35 AM to 8:20 AM
End of Dwadashi on Parana Day: 8:44 PM
Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat Rules
- Bathing and Attire: On Devshayani Ekadashi, take a bath and wear clean clothes. Then, hold water in your hand and make a vow to observe the fast and perform Vishnu Puja.
- Adhering to Brahmacharya: During the Ekadashi fast, follow the principles of Brahmacharya (celibacy). Consume only fruits and water throughout the day. Eating grains is prohibited.
- Restrictions on Usage: Avoid using soap, surf, and oil on Ekadashi. Refrain from consuming tamasic items (those that induce lethargy), and do not cut your hair, beard, or nails.
- No Sweeping: Do not sweep the house on Devshayani Ekadashi. It is believed that one should avoid harming any living beings. Sweeping might harm small creatures, so it is prohibited on this day.
- Avoid Plucking Tulsi Leaves: Do not pluck Tulsi (holy basil) leaves on Ekadashi. Avoid harming sacred trees like Tulsi, banana, Peepal, neem, and banyan in any way.
- Performing Puja Rituals: Conduct the Devshayani Ekadashi Puja with proper rituals. Listen to the story of Devshayani Ekadashi during the Puja. After the Puja, give donations according to your capability.
Spiritual Significance
Devshayani Ekadashi marks the commencement of the Chaturmas period, a holy four-month phase during which Lord Vishnu is believed to enter a deep meditative state or ‘Yoga Nidra’. This period is considered highly auspicious for undertaking spiritual practices, penance, and charitable activities. Devotees observe this day with great reverence, believing that their sincere prayers and fasting will be rewarded with divine blessings and spiritual upliftment.
Rituals and Observances
- Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise on Ekadashi till sunrise the next day (Dwadashi). Some observe a Nirjala fast (without water), while others may consume fruits and milk.
- Prayer and Worship: Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and perform Vishnu Puja. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama and other devotional hymns is common.
- Temple Visits: Many visit Vishnu temples to offer prayers and participate in special Ekadashi rituals.
- Charity: Acts of charity and donations are considered meritorious on this day, with devotees often feeding the poor and distributing essentials.
Mythological Background
According to Hindu mythology, Devshayani Ekadashi is the day when Lord Vishnu goes into a state of Yoga Nidra on the cosmic ocean of milk (Kshira Sagara). He rests on the Shesha Naag (serpent bed) for the next four months, awakening on Prabodhini Ekadashi in the month of Kartik. This period symbolizes introspection, penance, and the start of the monsoon season in India, encouraging devotees to focus on spiritual growth and self-discipline.
Conclusion
Devshayani Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting and rituals; it is an opportunity for spiritual renewal and deepening one’s connection with the divine. By observing the sacred practices of this day, devotees seek to purify their minds, hearts, and souls, aligning themselves with the cosmic rhythm of the universe. May this Devshayani Ekadashi bring peace, prosperity, and spiritual awakening to all.
