On Saturday, July 25, 2026, devotees observe Devshayani Ekadashi — the Shukla Ekadashi of Ashadha, also known as Ashadhi, Shayani, Padma or Toli Ekadashi. On this day Lord Vishnu is believed to begin his Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep) upon the serpent Shesha in the Ksheersagar, and the sacred four-month Chaturmas period begins. It follows Yogini Ekadashi earlier in the month.

Significance: When Lord Vishnu Sleeps

The Puranas describe that from Devshayani Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu withdraws into divine slumber for four months, awakening only on Prabodhini (Devutthana) Ekadashi in Kartik (November). This stretch — Chaturmas — is considered the most spiritually charged season of the year for tapasya, vows and devotion, even though worldly auspicious ceremonies are paused.

Ashadhi Ekadashi & the Pandharpur Wari

In Maharashtra, Devshayani Ekadashi is celebrated as Ashadhi Ekadashi — the grand climax of the Pandharpur Wari, when lakhs of Warkari pilgrims walk for days carrying the palkhis of saints Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram to the temple of Lord Vitthal (Vithoba) at Pandharpur. The chant of “Vitthal Vitthal” and the sight of the Warkaris is one of the most moving devotional spectacles in India.

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What is Chaturmas?

  • Begins: Devshayani Ekadashi — July 25, 2026.
  • Ends: Prabodhini (Devutthana) Ekadashi in November 2026, when Lord Vishnu awakens.
  • Auspicious ceremonies (weddings, upanayana, housewarming) are traditionally paused.
  • Devotees take up extra vratas, sattvic and simpler diets, increased japa, charity, fasting and scripture study.

How to Observe Devshayani Ekadashi

  1. Observe the Ekadashi fast (Nirjala or with fruits/milk) and avoid grains, beans and onion-garlic.
  2. Worship Lord Vishnu — ceremonially put the Lord “to rest” with tulsi, flowers, a ghee lamp and gentle lullaby-like bhajans.
  3. Chant “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” and read the Devshayani Ekadashi katha.
  4. Resolve your Chaturmas vrata (a daily discipline you will keep for four months), and break the Ekadashi fast on Dwadashi morning.

Benefits & For Devotees Abroad

  • Deep purification, the grace of Lord Vishnu, and merit that opens the holiest season of the Hindu year.
  • Adjust the fast to your local timings; perform a simple home Vishnu puja and join an online Ashadhi Ekadashi / Pandharpur live darshan.
  • Use Chaturmas to read the Bhagavad Gita and observe Guru Purnima (which falls just before, in early July).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is Devshayani Ekadashi in 2026?

Devshayani Ekadashi 2026 is observed on Saturday, July 25, 2026 — the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of the Ashadha month. It is also called Ashadhi, Shayani, Padma or Toli Ekadashi.

What happens on Devshayani Ekadashi?

Lord Vishnu is believed to begin his Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep) on the Ksheersagar for four months, marking the start of the holy Chaturmas period.

When does Chaturmas 2026 begin and end?

Chaturmas 2026 begins on Devshayani Ekadashi (July 25, 2026) and concludes about four months later on Prabodhini (Devutthana) Ekadashi in November, when Lord Vishnu awakens.

What should be avoided during Chaturmas?

Traditionally, auspicious ceremonies like weddings and housewarmings are paused; devotees take up extra vratas, simpler sattvic food and increased japa, charity and scripture study.

Is Devshayani Ekadashi the same as Ashadhi Ekadashi?

Yes — in Maharashtra it is celebrated as Ashadhi Ekadashi, the culmination of the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage to Lord Vitthal (Vithoba).

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Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya. Jai Vitthal! Jai Shri Hari!