The Ashadha Shukla Paksha Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, holds immense significance for Hindu devotees of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu enters a state of deep meditation (Yog Nidra) and awakens after four months on Prabodhini Ekadashi. During this period, the observance of any auspicious work is strictly prohibited. Read on to discover the details of this festival, including the shubh muhurat, vrat muhurat, parana time, rituals, and more.

Shubh Muhurat, Vrat Muhurat and Parana Time

This year, Devshayani Ekadashi is scheduled for July 17. According to the Drik Panchang calendar, the Ekadashi tithi commenced at 8:33 pm on July 16 and is expected to conclude at 9:02 pm on the same day. Devotees are advised to fast from sunrise to the next day, after which they should break their fast. Additionally, the vrat parana time, or the time to end the fast, is set for July 18 from 5:35 am to 8:20 am. The day of the parana Dwadashi concludes at 8:44 pm.

Significance and Rituals

Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Padma Ekadashi, Ashadi Ekadashi, and Hari Shayani Ekadashi, is observed on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha, which falls in the month of Ashadha. It is believed that Lord Vishnu rests on the Sheeshnaag (milky ocean) in Ksheer Sagar for four months, during which time this period is known as Chaturmaas. On this day, it is customary to offer prayers to Lord Vishnu in the hope of receiving his blessings.

Start your day by indulging in an early morning holy bath. Arrange a wooden plank and adorn it with an idol of Lord Vishnu. Engage in chanting mantras and offer your prayers to Lord Vishnu, presenting him with cow ghee, yellow chandan, roli, five fruits, dry fruits, yellow flower garland, and sweets. Additionally, one can conduct a havan at their home to dispel negative energies. It is also a tradition for those observing the Devshayani Ekadashi fast to engage in charity and donate essential items to the less fortunate.