Devshayani Ekadashi 2025: Chaturmas Begins as Lord Vishnu Sleeps and Shiva Takes Charge

Devshayani Ekadashi 2025 marks Lord Vishnu's divine slumber and the start of Chaturmas, guiding devotees toward spiritual awakening.

Devshayani Ekadashi 2025, also known as Sayana Ekadashi or Ashadi Ekadashi, will be observed on 6th July 2025. This sacred day marks a unique moment in the Vedic calendar when Lord Vishnu enters his divine slumber, known as Yoga Nidra, and Lord Shiva takes charge of the universe.

It is the beginning of the holy Chaturmas, a four-month period filled with spiritual practices, fasting, and penance. For devotees of Sanatan Dharma, it is not just a date on the calendar—it is a divine invitation to reset spiritually, leave behind worldly distractions, and walk the path of Bhakti.

What Happens on Devshayani Ekadashi 2025?

On this powerful Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha, it is believed that Lord Vishnu goes into deep meditation and sleep in Ksheer Sagar (the ocean of milk), resting on Sheshnag. This divine sleep continues until Prabodhini Ekadashi in the month of Kartik (2nd November 2025), marking the end of Chaturmas.

During this period, the active role of maintaining universal balance is believed to be taken up by Lord Shiva, the compassionate and fierce protector of Dharma.

Chaturmas Begins: A Sacred Season of Self-Discipline

Chaturmas means "four months" and is a very sacred time in the Hindu tradition. It starts from Devshayani Ekadashi and ends on Devutthana Ekadashi. These months are focused on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and devotion.

During Chaturmas, many devotees:

Avoid marriages and big celebrations

Follow fasting and simple food habits

Spend time in prayer, meditation, and reading scriptures

Practice silence, penance, and acts of service

It’s the perfect time for those who want to purify their karma and go deeper on their spiritual path.

The Story of Devshayani Ekadashi and King Mandhata

The true meaning of Devshayani Ekadashi is beautifully explained in a story from the Padma Purana.

Long ago, there was a kind and noble king named Mandhata from the Raghuvansh dynasty. He ruled his kingdom with truth and righteousness. The land was rich, peaceful, and the people lived happily.

But one day, a terrible drought hit the kingdom. For three years, not a single drop of rain fell. Crops dried up, and people started to suffer from famine.

King Mandhata was heartbroken to see his people in pain. So, he went to the wise sage Vashishtha to find a solution. The sage told him that such disasters happen when dharma (righteousness) is disturbed. He advised the king to observe the Ashadi Ekadashi fast, also known as Sayana or Devshayani Ekadashi, with complete faith in Lord Vishnu.

The king followed this advice with a pure heart. He and his people kept the fast and prayed with full devotion. Lord Vishnu was pleased with their prayers and blessed the kingdom with rain. The drought ended, and once again, the land became green, prosperous, and joyful.

This story shows us the power of fasting on Ekadashi and how Lord Vishnu’s grace can bring peace and blessings when we worship Him with a sincere and devoted heart.

Pilgrimage to Pandharpur: A Festival of Bhakti

Every year, lakhs of devotees from all over Maharashtra and beyond walk in large processions, known as Wari, to the sacred temple of Lord Vitthal (a form of Krishna-Vishnu) in Pandharpur. Chanting “Vitthal Vitthal”, they sing bhajans and dance in devotion during Ashadi Ekadashi, which coincides with Devshayani Ekadashi.

This spiritual yatra symbolizes surrender, unity, and faith. It shows how Bhakti (devotion) can move mountains and melt the heart of God.

Why Devshayani Ekadashi Is Spiritually Special

It’s a time to pause from the busyness of life and reflect within.

A chance to connect with God and strengthen your spiritual path.

A reminder that even Lord Vishnu rests, and we too should find peace and stillness in our hearts.

A season meant for self-transformation through fasting, prayers, and spiritual practices.

Fasting on Devshayani Ekadashi is believed to wash away sins and help one move closer to moksha (liberation).

During Chaturmas, chanting the Hare Krishna Maha-Mantra, reading holy scriptures, and doing seva (selfless service) helps to multiply spiritual growth and bring inner peace.

Conclusion

Devshayani Ekadashi 2025 is not just the start of Vishnu’s sleep—it is the awakening of the soul. As Lord Vishnu rests and Lord Shiva takes charge, the universe invites us to rest from distractions and rise in Bhakti.

May we all observe this sacred Ekadashi with devotion, keep Lord Vitthal in our hearts, and stay firm on the path of Dharma and love.