Devshayani Ekadashi in Hindi | Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat Katha - 2026

Devshayani Ekadashi – Introduction

Devshayani Ekadashi is celebrated on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. It is also known by names such as 'Padma Ekadashi', 'Haribodhini Ekadashi', or 'Dev Prabodhini Ekadashi'. From this Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu rests in the Ksheer Sagar for four months, which is why it is called Devshayani Ekadashi. During this period, Lord Shiva manages the universe.

Among all Ekadashis, Devshayani Ekadashi holds special significance. It is also called 'Padma Ekadashi' because on this day, Lord Vishnu is seated on a lotus. It is considered the best Ekadashi because Chaturmas begins on this day, which is a highly virtuous period.

Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi:

The special glory of Devshayani Ekadashi is described in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana. By observing this fast, all the desires of a person are fulfilled. This Ekadashi comes after the Ekadashi of the Krishna Paksha of Ashadha month, known as Yogini Ekadashi.

Devshayani Ekadashi is observed on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashadha. Chaturmas is considered to begin from this Ekadashi. During this period, no auspicious activities like weddings are performed. It is believed that from this day, Lord Shri Hari Vishnu sleeps in the Ksheersagar and is awakened four months later. That day is called Devutthani Ekadashi. The interval in between is called Chaturmas.

Devshayani Ekadashi is also called Dev Devshayani, Maha Ekadashi, Tholi Ekadashi (Telugu), Hari Devshayani, Padmanabha, Shayani, and Prabodhini Ekadashi.

The Fasting Story of Devshayani Ekadashi

King Yudhishthira said: O Keshav! What is the name of the Ekadashi of Ashadha Shukla? What is the method of observing this fast, and which deity is worshipped? Shri Krishna said: O Yudhishthira! I shall tell you the story that Brahmaji told Naradji.

Once, the celestial sage Naradji expressed his eagerness to know about this Ekadashi from Brahmaji. Then Brahmaji told him: In the Satya Yuga, there ruled a Chakravarti Samrat named Mandhata. The subjects in his kingdom were very happy. However, no one knows what the future holds. Therefore, he was also unaware that a severe famine was about to strike his kingdom.

Due to a lack of rain for three consecutive years, a terrible famine occurred in his kingdom. This famine caused widespread distress. Religious rituals, sacrifices, havans, pind daan, and fasts became scarce. When facing hardship, how can a person be interested in religious activities? The subjects went to the king and pleaded with him about their suffering.

The king was already distressed by this situation. He began to wonder what sin he had committed for which he was being punished in this manner. Then, with the aim of finding a solution to this suffering, the king set out into the forest with his army.

Wandering there, one day he reached the ashram of Angira Rishi, the son of Brahmaji, and prostrated himself before him. After offering blessings, the sage inquired about his well-being. Then he asked the reason for his wandering in the forest and coming to his ashram.

Then the king, joining his hands, said: O great sage! Despite following dharma in all respects, I am witnessing a famine in my kingdom. Please tell me the reason for this and provide a solution.

Hearing this, Maharishi Angira said: O king! This Satya Yuga is the best of all ages. In this, even a small sin incurs a very severe punishment.

In this era, dharma prevails in all its four aspects. Apart from Brahmins, no other caste has the right to perform penance. However, in your kingdom, a Shudra is performing penance. This is the reason why it is not raining in your kingdom. Until he meets his end, this famine will not cease. The famine can only be resolved by eliminating him.

However, the king's heart was not ready to sanction the killing of an innocent Shudra ascetic. He said: O divine one, my mind does not accept killing that innocent person. Please suggest another solution.

Maharishi Angira said: Observe the fast of the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashadha. By the grace of this fast, there will surely be rain.

The king returned to his capital and, along with all four varnas, observed the Padma Ekadashi fast according to the prescribed method. Due to the effect of the fast, torrential rains fell in his kingdom, and the entire kingdom was filled with wealth and grains.

The special glory of Devshayani Ekadashi is described in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana. By observing this fast, all the desires of a person are fulfilled.

Fasting Method

Preparations for the fast begin from the night of Dashami. One should consume sattvic food on this night and observe celibacy. Sleeping on the ground is also considered auspicious.

On the day of Ekadashi, wake up before sunrise and complete your bath and other ablutions. Wear clean clothes and take a vow to fast before the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu. Worship Lord Vishnu, offering him flowers, incense, lamps, and naivedya. Chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' and definitely offer Tulsi leaves.

On the day of Dwadashi, the fast is broken during an auspicious time. After bathing and other ablutions, worship Lord Vishnu and offer food to Brahmins. After that, break the fast by consuming sattvic food yourself.

What to Eat and What Not to Eat During the Fast

While observing the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi, fruits, milk, yogurt, paneer, kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour), singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour), sabudana (tapioca pearls), and nuts can be consumed. All these items are sattvic and in accordance with the rules of the fast.

Rice, lentils, wheat, gram flour, garlic, onions, and any type of tamasic food are prohibited during this fast. The reason for prohibiting rice is the belief that eating rice on Ekadashi is akin to sin. Consumption of garlic and onions is also considered tamasic, which breaks the sanctity of the fast.

Benefits of Devshayani Ekadashi Fast

• Absolution of Sins – By the effect of this fast, all the sinful deeds of a person are destroyed. According to the Puranas, this fast saves a person from the torments of hell.
• Attainment of Moksha – Devotees who observe this Ekadashi fast with devotion attain moksha after death and find a place in the abode of Lord Vishnu.
• Worldly Gains – Through the merit of this fast, a person attains wealth, grains, happiness, and prosperity. All obstacles in life are removed, and good fortune increases.
• Health Benefits – Fasting improves the digestive system of the body and helps in expelling toxins. It is extremely beneficial for physical and mental health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The spiritual significance of Devshayani Ekadashi is unparalleled, as it is on this day that Lord Vishnu enters his four-month yogic slumber. During this period, he entrusts the responsibility of the universe to Lord Shiva. Devotees who observe this Ekadashi fast with due diligence are blessed by Lord Vishnu with wealth, happiness, and prosperity, and ultimately attain moksha. This is why it is considered the best among all Ekadashis.

All devotees should observe the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi with complete faith and devotion. This fast not only fulfills worldly desires but also paves the way for spiritual progress. Jai Shri Hari! Jai Ekadashi Mata!

Have you ever observed the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi? Share your experience, devotion, and your feelings related to this holy fast with us in the comments.

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