Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : For millions of devotees, Devshayani Ekadashi marks a profound spiritual milestone, ushering in a four-month period of heightened piety and self-reflection known as Chaturmas. In 2025, this significant Hindu observance, also known as Hari Shayani Ekadashi, falls on Thursday, July 17th. It is the sacred day when Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, is believed to enter a cosmic slumber, resting on the cosmic serpent Sheshnag in the celestial ocean.
This auspicious day initiates Chaturmas, a holy period spanning from Devshayani Ekadashi to Prabodhini Ekadashi, when Lord Vishnu awakens. During these four monsoon months, major auspicious ceremonies like weddings, housewarming rituals, and new ventures are typically paused, as the divine energies are believed to be in a state of rest. It is said that during this time, Lord Shiva takes over the responsibility of cosmic protection.
Key Dates and Timings for Devshayani Ekadashi 2025:
Ekadashi Tithi Begins: Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 09:33 PM
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 08:42 PM
Devshayani Ekadashi Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025
Parana (Fast Breaking) Time: Friday, July 18, 2025, from 05:43 AM to 08:26 AM
Significance and Observances:
Devotees observe Devshayani Ekadashi with immense devotion, undertaking a rigorous fast to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. The fast can be a complete 'Nirjala' Vrat (without food or water) or a 'Phal-ahar' Vrat (consuming only fruits and milk).
The rituals for the day typically include:
Early Morning Purification: Waking up before sunrise, bathing, and donning clean clothes.
Idol Worship: Placing an idol or image of Lord Vishnu, particularly in his reclining posture, on a pristine altar.
Offerings: Presenting yellow flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, and a lit lamp to the deity.
Mantra Chanting: Reciting the sacred mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" and other Vishnu stutis. Many devotees also read the Vishnu Sahasranama (the thousand names of Vishnu).
Charity and Donations: Performing acts of kindness, donating food, clothes, or money to the needy is considered highly meritorious.
Spiritual Reflection: Spending the day in prayer, meditation, and introspection, avoiding any negative thoughts or activities. Grains, pulses, and rice are strictly avoided during the fast.
Devshayani Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting but a period for spiritual rejuvenation, inner purification, and strengthening one's connection with the divine. It reminds devotees of the cosmic cycles and the importance of discipline and devotion in their lives. The anticipation then builds for Prabodhini Ekadashi, when Lord Vishnu is believed to awaken, bringing renewed energy and auspiciousness back into the world.
Read More: Religious Significance and Start Date of Paush Month 2025
