The Ekadashi of Lord Vishnu – Beginning of Chaturmas

Devshayani Ekadashi marks the day when Lord Vishnu is believed to go into cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on the serpent Shesha. This day also signifies the beginning of Chaturmas, a four-month period considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices, fasting, and religious observances.

Fasting on Devshayani Ekadashi is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul, and bring prosperity, health, and spiritual merit.

📅 Panchang for Devshayani Ekadashi 2026

🌟 Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

• Marks the day Lord Vishnu goes into Yogic sleep on Shesha Naga, resting until Prabodhini Ekadashi (October/November).
• Observing this Ekadashi brings:
  • Removal of sins and negative karma
  • Prosperity, wealth, and spiritual blessings
  • Health, longevity, and family harmony
• Traditionally considered the most important Ekadashi for starting the Chaturmas spiritual observances.

Legend:
Devshayani Ekadashi is mentioned in the Padma Purana, stating that devotees who observe this fast with devotion attain moksha and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Lord Vishnu blesses his devotees with spiritual knowledge and material prosperity.

🙏 Rituals & Vrat Vidhi

1. Early Morning Preparations

• Take a holy bath and wear clean traditional clothes.
• Set up a puja area with Vishnu idol or picture, flowers, incense, and lamp.

2. Fasting

• Observing a strict fast (Nirjala or partial) is recommended.
• Fruits, milk, or water may be consumed for partial fasting.
• Avoid tamasic foods like onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food.

3. Worship of Lord Vishnu

• Offer Tulsi leaves, flowers, sandalwood, fruits, and water.
• Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya, and Ekadashi Katha.
• Devotees meditate on Lord Vishnu’s divine form during the fast.

4. Night Vigil & Charity

• Devotees may perform bhajans, kirtans, and reading scriptures at night.
• Charity or donation to the needy is highly recommended.

5. Parana (Breaking Fast)

• Break the fast on Dwadashi Tithi, after sunrise and after offering food to Brahmins, cows, or the needy.

🌎 Regional Observances

💠 Benefits of Observing Devshayani Ekadashi

• Removes past sins and negative karma
• Grants wealth, prosperity, and spiritual merit
• Enhances devotion, concentration, and spiritual knowledge
• Brings health, longevity, and family harmony
• Marks a spiritually auspicious beginning of Chaturmas