History of Devshayani Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadi Ekadashi or Maha-ekadashi, is an important Hindu religious observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu. 

Devshayani Ekadashi marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a holy period of four months during the rainy season in the Hindu calendar.

It falls on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Ashadha (June-July).

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Vishnu goes into a deep sleep (Yoga Nidra) on this day in the cosmic ocean of milk (Ksheer Sagar) on the serpent Shesha.

Lord Vishnu awakens from his slumber four months later on Prabodhini Ekadashi, which falls in Kartik month (October-November).

The origin story of Devshayani Ekadashi involves King Mandata, who inadvertently killed Sage Vashishtha's son during a hunting expedition. To cleanse his sin, the king observed this Ekadashi and was absolved of his guilt.

Observing this Ekadashi is believed to bestow virtues equivalent to performing sacrifices and penances, and it helps in achieving spiritual liberation.

Devotees fast on this day and spend time in prayer, singing devotional songs, and reading scriptures like Vishnu Purana and Bhagavad Gita.

In Maharashtra, it is celebrated as Ashadi Ekadashi with great enthusiasm, especially in Pandharpur, where devotees undertake a pilgrimage (wari) to the Vithoba temple.

The deep sleep of Lord Vishnu symbolizes a period of rest for creation and a time for spiritual reflection and growth for devotees.

It is considered highly auspicious to observe this Ekadashi by fasting and praying to Lord Vishnu, seeking his blessings for prosperity, peace, and spiritual upliftment.