Ashadi Ekadashi: Date, Tithi, Celebrations & History !

Ashadi Ekadashi, also known as Shayani or Devshayani Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with great devotion.

The word “Ekadashi” is derived from “Ekadasi,” which means the eleventh day. On this auspicious day, devotees observe a fast and engage in prayers and rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that observing a fast on Ashadi Ekadashi cleanses the body and soul, removes sins, and helps one attain Moksha (liberation).

One of the unique customs associated with Ashadi Ekadashi is the Pandharpur Wari, a traditional pilgrimage to the town of Pandharpur in Maharashtra. Thousands of devotees, known as “Warkaris,” walk long distances singing hymns and carrying palanquins of Saints Tukaram and Dnyaneshwar to reach the Vithoba Temple in Pandharpur. The atmosphere is filled with bhajans, spiritual discourses, and a sense of unity and devotion among the pilgrims.

Ashadi Ekadashi Date 2024

Ashadi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, occurs on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashadha, which typically falls in June or July in the Gregorian calendar. Ashadi Ekadashi holds immense spiritual and religious importance for Hindus across India. This year it is going to observed on July 17 Wednesday.

Ashadi Ekadashi Tithi 2024

Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat is observed on the Ekadashi (11th day) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) in the month of Ashadha. This year, the Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat will be observed on July 17. According to the Panchang (Hindu calendar), the Ekadashi tithi (date) will begin at 8:33 PM on July 16 and will end at 9:02 PM on July 17.

The auspicious time (Shubh Muhurat) for performing the puja (worship) on this day is from 5:34 AM to 8:20 AM. Worshipping Lord Vishnu during this time is considered highly beneficial.

Devshayani Ekadashi is especially significant because it marks the day when Lord Vishnu is believed to enter his Yogic sleep (Yoga Nidra). Observing a fast and worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day is believed to bring happiness, peace, and prosperity to devotees. It is also said to destroy all sins and help devotees attain salvation (moksha).

How is Ashadi Ekadashi celebrated ?

Ashadi Ekadashi, also known as Shayani or Devshayani Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Here’s how Ashadi Ekadashi is typically celebrated:

Maharashtra

1. Pandharpur Wari (Pilgrimage):
   • The most notable celebration takes place in Pandharpur, Maharashtra. Devotees, known as Warkaris, embark on a 21-day pilgrimage (Wari) to the Vithoba temple in Pandharpur.
   • Pilgrims carry palkhis (palanquins) of revered saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar. They walk, sing devotional songs, and chant the name of Lord Vithoba.
2. Bhajans and Kirtans:
   • Devotees engage in singing bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (spiritual discourses) in praise of Lord Vithoba (a form of Lord Krishna/Vishnu).
   • Temples and homes are filled with music and spiritual activities.
3. Fasting and Prayers:
   • Many devotees observe a fast on this day. They refrain from consuming grains and only eat fruits, milk, and other non-cereal foods.
   • Special prayers and rituals are conducted in temples dedicated to Lord Vithoba.

Karnataka

1. Temple Celebrations:
   • Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna conduct special prayers and rituals. The day is marked with devotional singing and chanting.
2. Fasting and Pujas:
   • Devotees observe fasting and perform pujas at home and in temples, seeking blessings for prosperity and spiritual growth.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

1. Special Pujas:
   • Devotees perform special pujas and rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Temples are decorated, and special offerings are made.
2. Cultural Programs:
   • Cultural programs, including classical music and dance performances, are organized to celebrate the occasion.

Goa

1. Temple Festivities:
   • Temples in Goa hold special prayers, kirtans, and bhajans. The temples are beautifully decorated, and devotees participate in various religious activities.
2. Community Feasts:
   • In some regions, community feasts are organized where devotees come together to break their fast with a shared meal.

General Practices

1. Fasting:
   • Devotees fast from sunrise to sunset, consuming only water or specific non-cereal foods.
2. Night Vigil:
   • Some devotees stay awake all night, singing hymns and chanting the names of Lord Vishnu.
3. Charity:
   • Acts of charity and helping the needy are common during this festival, as it is considered a meritorious act.

Ashadi Ekadashi is a time of devotion, spirituality, and community bonding, with each region adding its unique flavor to the celebrations.

Ashadi Ekadashi History

Ashadi Ekadashi holds great significance in Hindu tradition and has a rich historical and mythological background. Here’s an overview of its history:

Mythological Significance:

Vishnu’s Sleep (Yoga Nidra):

• According to Hindu mythology, Ashadi Ekadashi marks the day when Lord Vishnu enters a state of deep meditation or cosmic sleep, known as Yoga Nidra, on the Shesha Naag (serpent bed) in the Ksheer Sagar (ocean of milk).
• This period of divine sleep continues for four months until Prabodhini Ekadashi, which usually falls in October or November. This four-month period is known as Chaturmas, considered a holy period for penance, fasting, and spiritual activities

Religious-Historical Texts:

• Padma Purana: The significance of Ashadi Ekadashi is mentioned in the Padma Purana, an ancient Hindu scripture. According to this text, observing a fast on this day can wash away sins and bring about spiritual upliftment.
• Bhavishya Purana: The Bhavishya Purana also highlights the importance of this day. It narrates the story of King Mandata, who observed a fast on Ashadi Ekadashi to overcome a severe drought in his kingdom, resulting in a bountiful rain and prosperity.

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