Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Ashadhi Ekadashi (Devshayani Ekadashi)
Ashadhi Ekadashi, also called Devshayani Ekadashi or Shayani Ekadashi, falls on the Shukla Ekadashi of Ashadha month (June/July). On this day Lord Vishnu is believed to retire into Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep) on the serpent Shesha in the ocean of milk, initiating the four-month Chaturmas period. All auspicious activities such as marriages and housewarmings are suspended until Devuthani Ekadashi four months later. It is the most important Ekadashi in Maharashtra, celebrated as Pandharpur Wari — a grand pilgrimage to Vitthal (Vishnu) temple.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Earns merit equivalent to years of tapas, marks beginning of the most spiritually charged period of the year (Chaturmas), removes all sins, ensures Vishnu's blessings, and is especially auspicious for Varkari devotees of Vitthal.
Procedure
Begin Dashami evening with a light sattvik meal. On Ekadashi wake before sunrise, bathe, and worship Lord Vishnu. Chant Vishnu Sahasranama and Hare Krishna mantra. Observe full-day fast. Stay awake at night performing bhajans and kirtans. In Maharashtra, join the Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur or perform puja at home in the spirit of the wari.
When to Observe
Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi — once per year (June/July). Marks the start of Chaturmas. Especially significant at Pandharpur (Maharashtra) and all Vishnu temples.
Fasting Rules
Avoid rice, wheat, lentils, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Nirjala (complete waterless) fast earns maximum merit. Phalahar (fruits, milk, nuts) is also accepted.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on Dwadashi after sunrise with Tulsi water, a brief Vishnu puja, and then light prasad.
FAQ
Q.What is Ashadhi Ekadashi (Devshayani Ekadashi)?
Ashadhi Ekadashi, also called Devshayani Ekadashi or Shayani Ekadashi, falls on the Shukla Ekadashi of Ashadha month (June/July). On this day Lord Vishnu is believed to retire into Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep) on the serpent Shesha in the ocean of milk,...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Ashadhi Ekadashi (Devshayani Ekadashi)?
Avoid rice, wheat, lentils, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. Nirjala (complete waterless) fast earns maximum merit. Phalahar (fruits, milk, nuts) is also accepted.
Q.When should Ashadhi Ekadashi (Devshayani Ekadashi) be observed?
Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi — once per year (June/July). Marks the start of Chaturmas. Especially significant at Pandharpur (Maharashtra) and all Vishnu temples.
Q.What are the benefits of Ashadhi Ekadashi (Devshayani Ekadashi)?
Earns merit equivalent to years of tapas, marks beginning of the most spiritually charged period of the year (Chaturmas), removes all sins, ensures Vishnu's blessings, and is especially auspicious for Varkari devotees of Vitthal.