Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi or Hari Shayani Ekadashi, marks a deeply spiritual and sacred day in the Hindu calendar. It is observed on the Ekadashi (11th day) of the bright half of the month of Ashadha (June–July). This auspicious occasion holds immense religious value as it marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s cosmic slumber (Yoga Nidra) in the Kshira Sagar (Ocean of Milk).
Let us explore the Vrat Katha (fasting story), significance, and rituals of Devshayani Ekadashi.
🕉️ Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi
According to the Padma Purana and Bhavishya Purana, Devshayani Ekadashi is the day when Lord Vishnu goes into deep sleep on the cosmic serpent Sheshnaag, and remains asleep for four months, until Prabodhini Ekadashi (Kartik month). This period is known as Chaturmas, during which marriages and other auspicious ceremonies are avoided.
Devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and engage in devotional acts to seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings, forgiveness of sins, and spiritual upliftment.
📖 Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat Katha (The Story)
Once upon a time, there was a powerful and righteous king named Mandata of the Ikshvaku dynasty. During his reign, a severe drought hit his kingdom for three years. Crops failed, rivers dried up, and people suffered immensely. Despite his efforts, nothing could end the misery.
The distressed king approached his guru and sage Angira for guidance. The sage advised him:
“O King, observe the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi with full devotion. This vrat pleases Lord Vishnu and can remove all doshas (sins) and obstacles.”
Following the sage’s advice, King Mandata observed the vrat with full faith and devotion. Miraculously, rains returned, crops flourished, and prosperity came back to his kingdom.
This story emphasizes that faith, devotion, and penance can overcome even the greatest of adversities.
🙏 Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat Rituals
Here is a step-by-step guide to observing the Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat:
🌅 1. Preparations (Dashami Night)
- Take a sattvic (pure) meal before sunset on the 10th day (Dashami).
- Avoid tamasic foods like garlic, onion, and non-vegetarian items.
🧘 2. On Ekadashi
- Wake up early, take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
- Set up an altar with an idol or image of Lord Vishnu reclining on Sheshnaag.
- Offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, incense, lamp, and fruits to the Lord.
- Chant Vishnu mantras like “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” or recite the Vishnu Sahasranama.
- Observe a strict fast – some follow nirjala (without water), while others opt for phalahar (fruits and milk only).
- Listen to or read the Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
- Perform aarti and bhajans in the evening.
- Stay awake at night (Jagran) singing hymns and kirtans in praise of Vishnu.
🌄 3. Dwadashi (Next Day)
- The fast is broken on Dwadashi morning after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu.
- Feed Brahmins or donate to the poor as per one’s capacity.
🌼 The Role of Tulsi
Tulsi (Holy Basil) holds special significance on this day. Devotees offer Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu, as it is believed that Tulsi is very dear to Him. This ritual is said to bring peace, prosperity, and divine grace.
💫 Benefits of Observing Devshayani Ekadashi
- Helps attain moksha (liberation) and release from the cycle of birth and death.
- Destroys sins and negative karma.
- Brings spiritual clarity, peace of mind, and divine blessings.
- Creates a sense of discipline and devotion in daily life.
🌙 Devshayani Ekadashi and Chaturmas
This Ekadashi begins the Chaturmas period, a spiritually charged time for sadhana, vrata, and inner transformation. It is believed that even the Devas (celestial beings) engage in penance during these four months. Devotees avoid worldly pleasures and focus on spiritual growth.
📅 2025 Date & Muhurat (Tentative)
- Devshayani Ekadashi 2025 Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
- Parana (Breaking fast): Wednesday, July 9, 2025 (morning)
(Please confirm timings as per your local Panchang.)
🌺 Conclusion
Devshayani Ekadashi is more than a ritual—it is a spiritual milestone. It reminds us of the impermanence of worldly life and the need for inner awakening. By observing the fast with sincerity and devotion, one can seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and embark on a path of dharma and enlightenment.