Devshayani Ekadashi June 2023: All You Need to Know About Devshayani Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadi Ekadashi or Padma Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in India. Amongst all the Ekadashi’s the Devshayani Ekadashi is regarded as one of the most important ones.

According to the Hindu lunar calendar, there are two Ekadashis observed in each month. These Ekadashis are based on the phases of the moon: Shukla Paksha Ekadashi occurs on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight, precisely during the waxing phase of the moon. In contrast, Krishna Paksha Ekadashi occurs on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight, when the moon is in its waning phase.

Devshayani Ekadashi 2023 falls on Thursday, June 29th.

 Devshayni Ekadashi Katha :

“Devshayani” in English means “the sleeping of the gods”. This festival marks the beginning of the Chaturmas period, which is considered an auspicious time for spiritual practices and devotion.

Devshayani Ekadashi has a history that is connected to Lord Vishnu, one of the major Hindu gods. According to Hindu mythology, during the four-month period of Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu is said to rest or slumber on a celestial bed known as Sheshnag (the serpent with a thousand heads). Devshayani Ekadashi marks the beginning of this period, which ends on Prabodhini Ekadashi.

 The Bhavishyottara Purana, an ancient Hindu text, tells the tale behind Devshyani Ekadashi. The tale goes like this,

Once there lived a king name Mandhata, a noble and righteous king. Known for his purity, religiousness, and kindness towards his subjects, King Mandhata had been blessed with a prosperous kingdom. For centuries, his realm had been untouched by drought or any calamity.

However, fate took an unexpected turn, and a severe drought descended upon the kingdom, bringing with it immense suffering and despair. King Mandhata, deeply concerned for his people’s well-being, spared no effort in trying to alleviate their suffering. He conducted sacrificial rituals and religious ceremonies. Countless offerings were made but of no use.

Overwhelmed by the plight of his people and find a solution, King Mandhata embarked on a quest to seek guidance from a wise sage. During his journey, fate led him to the presence of Rishi Angira, a revered sage renowned for his deep knowledge and spiritual insights. Recognizing the anguish in the king’s eyes, the Rishi attentively listened to the King as he poured out his troubles. The Rishi explained that Devshayani Ekadashi marked the day when Lord Vishnu entered a divine slumber for a period of four months. He revealed that observing fast on this auspicious day had the power to please Lord Vishnu and bring an end to the drought.

Eager to bring relief to his kingdom, King Mandhata returned to his people and conveyed the sage’s divine message. He urged all to join him in observing the vrat (fast) of Devshayani Ekadashi and follow the fasting ritual.
On the appointed day the entire kingdom united to observe the fast. Impressed by the unwavering faith and devotion, Lord Vishnu was moved to compassion. In response to their devotion, the skies darkened, and raindrops fell gently upon the barren earth. The drought finally came to an end, replaced by the blessings of abundance and prosperity.

From that day forward, Devshayani Ekadashi became an integral part of their traditions, observed with great reverence and devotion. The legacy of King Mandhata’s perseverance continued to inspire future generations to place faith in the divine, to observe rituals with sincerity, and stand united in the face of adversity.

Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi :

Devshayani Ekadashi is regarded as an important festival for followers of Lord Vishnu and has great significance in Hindu tradition. In order to understand why Devshayani Ekadashi is adored and honoured, consider the following:

1. Honouring the Divine Rest of Lord Vishnu
2.  Auspicious Beginning of Chaturmas
3.  Seeking Divine Grace and Protection
4. Significance for Farmers and Agriculturists: this festival is seen as an invocation for bountiful rains and a prosperous harvest.
5.  Unity and Community Participation
6.  Spiritual Significance and Personal Growth

The holiday of Devshayani Ekadashi serves as a reminder of the value of morality, dedication, and trust in one’s spiritual development. Devotees seek spiritual enlightenment and make an effort to live upright and moral lives by celebrating the festival.

Devshayni Ekadashi Puja :

• Perform Lord Vitthal puja

Benefits:                                                  

1.) Blessings of Good Health

2. Abundance and Prosperity

3. Inner Peace and Spiritual Growth

4. Removal of Obstacles and Protection

• Vishnu Sahasranama Puja

Benefits:

1. Attainment of Divine Blessings
2. Spiritual Upliftment and Self-Realization
3. Protection from Evil and Obstacles
4. Liberation from Samsara

Astrological Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

During the period from Devshayani Ekadashi to Devuthani Gyaras, certain auspicious activities are prohibited. Reciting religious hymns, engaging in kirtan (devotional singing), and worshiping deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Tulsi are highly encouraged.

The planetary alignments during Chaturmas, are believed to be conducive to the moral and spiritual upliftment of individuals. Wearing Rudraksha beads during this auspicious period holds great significance. Rudraksha benefits are high, specially the 10 mukhi (faces), 7 mukhi, or 19 mukhi, as they carry the blessings of Lord Krishna, Goddess Lakshmi, and LordVishnu. You can attract good fortune and find solutions to problems in your life by wearing a Rudraksha mala (rosary) on Devshayani Ekadashi. Rudraksha beads are thought to create good vibes, support the soul, and increase spiritual power.

Conclusion :

Devshayani Ekadashi does in fact mark the start of the blessed month of Chaturmas, which is seen to be very beneficial for people’s spiritual development and growth. Overall, Chaturmas offers a setting that is favourable for people to progress in their spiritual lives, develop virtues, and undergo personal growth. If you’re unsure of which Rudraksha will serve you the best, it’s best to speak with a professional astrologer who can offer insightful advice based on your unique astrological chart and needs. Visit www.lineologyglobal.com for online astrology consultant for spiritual guidance.