17 July - Ashadhi Ekadashi -2024

 

Ashadhi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi or Maha Ekadashi, is one of the most significant Ekadashi observances in Hinduism. Celebrated on the 11th lunar day of the bright fortnight in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June-July), it marks the beginning of the Chaturmas period, a four-month phase when Lord Vishnu is believed to go into a deep cosmic sleep. This period is considered highly auspicious for spiritual practices and devotion.

Significance and Rituals:

1. Fasting:

   • Devotees observe a fast from sunrise on Ashadhi Ekadashi until sunrise the next day. The fast can vary from a complete fast (nirjala) with no food or water to a partial fast (phalahar) where fruits, milk, and non-grain items are consumed.

2. Prayers and Worship:

   • Special prayers and rituals are performed in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees recite Vishnu Sahasranama, Bhagavad Gita, and other sacred texts.
   • Temples are decorated, and special offerings like flowers, fruits, and Tulsi leaves are made to Lord Vishnu.

3. Bhajans and Kirtans:

   • Devotional songs and hymns praising Lord Vishnu are sung. Many communities organize bhajan and kirtan sessions that last through the night.

4. Pandharpur Yatra:

   • In Maharashtra, Ashadhi Ekadashi is synonymous with the grand pilgrimage to the Vithoba temple in Pandharpur. Devotees, known as Warkaris, travel long distances on foot to reach the temple. They carry palkhis (palanquins) with the images of saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar, singing devotional songs along the way.

5. Chaturmas Vow:

   • Many devotees take vows for the Chaturmas period, which starts from this day. These vows can include abstaining from certain foods, engaging in regular prayers, and other forms of penance.

Mythological Background:

According to Hindu mythology, Ashadhi Ekadashi marks the day when Lord Vishnu, after the event of churning the ocean of milk, goes into a deep sleep on Shesha Naga, the cosmic serpent. This sleep continues for four months until Prabodhini Ekadashi in the month of Kartik (October-November), when he wakes up. This period is known as Chaturmas and is considered a time for penance, austerity, and devotion.

Ashadhi Ekadashi 2024:

In 2024, Ashadhi Ekadashi will be observed on Monday, July 15th. Devotees will participate in various spiritual activities, fasting, and ceremonies to honor Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings for prosperity, happiness, and spiritual growth.