Devasayani Ekadasi, also known as Hari Shayani Ekadashi, occurs during the shukla paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Ashada month (June – July). In 2017, the date of Devasayani Ekadasi is July 4. Devashayani Ekadasi is also known as Vishnu Sayana Ekadasi as it is believed that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep after this Ekadasi as it is the night of devas with the beginning of Dakshinayana. Ekadasi Fasting is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and falls on the 11th day of a lunar fortnight in traditional Hindu Calendar.
Devasayani Ekadashi is popularly known as Ashadi Ekadasi in Maharashtra and it marks the end of the Pandarpur Yatra. The Chaturmas (four Hindu holy months) and the Chaturmasa Vrata also begins in some regions on Sayana Ekadasi.
This Ekadasi is observed as Toli Ekadasi in South India. Taptamudra Dharanam – Wearing of Heated Seals on Body - observed by Vaishnava mutts takes place on the day.
Thousands of devotees also take a holy dip in Godavari River on the day and pay obeisance to Lord Rama at Kala Ram temple.
The importance of Sayana Ekadasi was explained to Sage Narada by Lord Brahma. Lord Krishna narrated about the greatness of it to Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas. The glory of Devasayani is mentioned in the Bhavisyottara Purana.
It is believed that those who observe this Ekadashi is blessed with peace and happiness. Even hearing about it is considered highly auspicious. Interestingly, Devasayani Ekadashi is observed as a mark of pure devotion and there is not desire or fulfillment of material gains.
Those who fast on the day do not eat rice or food prepared using rice. All the normal rituals associated with Ekadasi fasting is followed. Devout devotees of Vishnu start the preparation of Chaturmas Vrata from this day.
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