Dev Shayani Ekadashi is one of the most revered and auspicious days in the Hindu Calendar. This year Dev Shayani Ekadashi will be commemorated on 17th July. This pious day is marked as the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of ‘Ashaadha’. This sacred day is observed as the beginning of Chaturmaas period, a four month phase, devoted particularly for introspection, atonement and adoration.
The term “Dev Shayani” is composed of two words - Dev and Shayani where Dev means God and Shayani means sleeping, collectively known as “God’s Sleeping”.
It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu, the preserver and the protector in the Hindu Trinity, enters into a deep slumber on the cosmic serpent “Shesh” in the KsheerSagar (Ocean of Milk). This period of rest or deep slumber is continued for four months culminating in Prabodhini Ekadashi, in the month of Kartik, marked by Lord Vishnu’s awakening from the deep slumber.
It is deemed that during this time, the cosmic order is maintained by the deities and devotees by their combined engagement in spiritual practices.
This auspicious day has its own unique fervor and zest among devotees. The day begins with ritualistic baths to offer prayers wholly devoted to Lord Vishnu. Temples of Lord Vishnu are adorned with flowers, lights and intricate decorations, spreading the vibes of purity and dedication. Recital of “Vishnu Sahasranaam” (A hymn dedicated to the thousand names of Vishnu) and scriptures like Bhagwad Gita promotes the atmosphere of worship and faith. To pay homage to Lord Vishnu, people abstain from food like grains and beans and certain kinds of vegetables thereby taking only fruits, milk and water to purify their soul, to be one with God.
Devshayani Ekadashi is not only the time for practices like personal reflection, fasting and other kinds of worship, but it also plays a significant role in enhancing communal harmony. Devotees from all walks of life come together to participate in Keertan (Devotional Songs) and Bhajans in the glory of Lord Vishnu, cultivate an environment of oneness and unity with their collective worship. During this time, devotees are observed engaging in charitable activities, helping the needy and contributing towards the welfare of society.
The significance of DevshayaniEkadashi lies in promoting spiritual upliftment and rejuvenation through fasting, keertan, recital of hymns and charity. It reminds the transient nature of life and transformation from one state to another in the form of slumber to awakening. Dedication,faith, observance of the right path through scriptures of Bhagavad Gita, one can attain spiritual awakening, ecstasy and oneness with God.
Devotees all over the world have great enthusiasm to celebrate this auspicious day on 17th July 2024 this year. In essence, ‘DevshayaniEkadashi’ inspires and motivates countless individuals to be steadfast in the path of the spiritual journey by devotion and faith in the protector of the universe.
With warm regards
Team Cyber Astro