Devshayani Ekadashi is one of the most sacred and significant observances in Hinduism. It falls on the Ekadashi tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. It is also known as Harishayani Ekadashi, Padma Ekadashi and Ashadhi Ekadashi.
According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu enters Yoga Nidra (divine sleep) in the Kshira Sagar for four months on this day. This marks the beginning of Chaturmas. As Lord Vishnu remains in divine slumber during this period, Hindu scriptures consider it inauspicious to perform auspicious ceremonies such as weddings, Mundan, Upanayana, Griha Pravesh and the commencement of a new business.
Religious beliefs hold that observing the Devshayani Ekadashi fast helps devotees overcome the effects of past sins, attain moksha, and remove obstacles related to marriage, children, happiness and prosperity. Scriptures also state that those who observe the fast with devotion and according to the prescribed rituals are blessed with Brahmaloka and ultimately attain Vishnuloka.
Devshayani Ekadashi 2026 Date and Shubh Muhurat
According to Drik Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi will begin at 9.12 am on 24 July and end at 11.34 am on 25 July. As the festival is observed according to the Udaya Tithi, Devshayani Ekadashi will be celebrated on Saturday, 25 July 2026.
Ekadashi Tithi Begins – 09:12 AM on Jul 24, 2026
Ekadashi Tithi Ends – 11:34 AM on Jul 25, 2026
Parana Timing: 26 July, from 5.39 am to 8.22 am.
Important: “Parana should not be done during Hari Vasara. One should wait for Hari Vasara to get over before breaking the fast. Hari Vasara is first one fourth duration of Dwadashi Tithi. The most preferred time to break the fast is Pratahkal. One should avoid breaking the fast during Madhyahna. If due to some reasons one is not able to break the fast during Pratahkal then one should do it after Madhyahna,” states Drik Panchang.
Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhi
The observance of the Devshayani Ekadashi fast begins on Dashami. Devotees should consume a sattvic meal on this day and take a vow to observe the fast.
On Ekadashi morning, take a holy bath and perform an abhishek of Lord Vishnu with Panchamrit. Offer yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves and bhog. Afterwards, recite the vrat katha and remain awake during the night for as long as possible in devotion.
Devshayani Ekadashi Mantra
Chanting Lord Vishnu’s mantras on this day is believed to be highly auspicious. Devotees are advised to chant “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” 108 times.
Reciting the following shloka is also considered auspicious:
“Shantakaram Bhujagashayanam Padmanabham Suresham, Vishvadharam Gaganasadrisham Meghavarnam Shubham.”
Activities Avoided During Chaturmas
Chaturmas begins with Devshayani Ekadashi and continues for four months. During this period, weddings, other auspicious ceremonies, haircuts and getting new clothes stitched are traditionally avoided. Instead, devotees are encouraged to practise self-discipline, spiritual devotion and worship.
What to Do on Devshayani Ekadashi
Offer yellow sweets, Panchamrit and Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu. Eat sattvic food, perform acts of charity and strive to maintain purity in thought, speech and action. It is believed that observing this fast purifies the soul, calms the mind and strengthens one’s spiritual connection with the Lord.
Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.