Dev Uthani Ekadashi

 

Dev Uthani Ekadashi-

As per the Hindu Calendar , the Ekadashi that occurs in the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Kartik, is called the Dev Uthani Ekadashi ( 4 November 2022). The occasion of Dev Uthani Ekadashi marks the end of the period of four months of inauspicious time. This time period is called the Chaturmas.

The period of four months, before the Dev Uthani Ekadashi, is considered to be the sleeping period of Lord Vishnu. It is said that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep called the Yoga Nidra, on Devshayani Ekadashi and wakes up after the four month duration, i.e. on Dev Uthani Ekadashi.

All the devotees follow different rituals at the awakening of Lord Vishnu. On this Dev Uthani Ekadashi, all the rituals of the day would be followed to celebrate the awakening of Lord Vishnu.

Dev Uthani Ekadashi is famous by various names among the devotees. Some of the famous names are – Prabodhini Ekadashi, Dev Uthani Ekadashi, Dev Utthana Ekadashi, Vishnu Prabodhini or Deothan. Also, this Ekadasi occurs in the Hindu month of Kartik, hence, it is also known as Kartiki Ekadashi.

Many people observe fast on this day and light diyas in their house for five days. It marks the beginning of Hindu wedding season. Lord Vishnu married Tulsi Devi, a plant which is said to be the incarnation of a woman named ‘Vrinda’. Thus, the ritual of marriage known as Tulsi Vivah is performed by the devotees on Dev Uthani Ekadashi. In the evening, Shri Lakshmi Narayana pujan is observed. Thereafter, begins the month long wedding season.

Devotees who keep a fast on Ekadashi Tithi, follow a set of rules before breaking their fast on the next day. Ardent devotees of Lord Vishnu remain awake all night chanting the names of the Almighty, singing songs that glorify his might and reading Shri Vishnu Sahasranam.

Do Dhyana (Meditate), Light an oil lamp, offer flowers, fruits and incense to the deity. Invoke Lord Vishnu. Chant the 'OM Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' Mantra with utmost sincerity, devotion and unshakable faith. Seek forgiveness for any mistake one may have committed during the vrat. Donate food to the needy.

Jai Shri Lakshmi Narayana Namah!