Devshayani Ekadashi 2024: Date, Puja Timings, Significance, and Rituals

Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi, falls during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Ashadha. This sacred day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and marks the commencement of his four-month-long sleep (Chaturmas). Devotees observe this Ekadashi with great reverence through fasting, pujas, and various rituals. This article provides comprehensive details about the 2024 Devshayani Ekadashi Date Puja Timings in detail.

2024 Devshayani Ekadashi Date Puja Timings

In 2024, Devshayani Ekadashi will be observed on Friday, July 19. The puja timings and other important schedules are as follows:

Puja Timings

• Begin Time: 03:45 AM on July 19, 2024
• End Time: 01:30 AM on July 20, 2024

Fasting Timings

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 03:45 AM on July 19, 2024
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 01:30 AM on July 20, 2024

Fasting Break Timings

• Parana Time: 06:00 AM to 08:45 AM on July 20, 2024

Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus. The term “Devshayani” translates to “God’s sleep,” symbolizing the onset of Lord Vishnu’s slumber for four months. This period, known as Chaturmas, ends with Prabodhini Ekadashi in the month of Kartik. During these months, it is believed that Lord Vishnu rests on the cosmic serpent Shesha in the Kshirasagara (ocean of milk).

Spiritual Benefits

Observing Devshayani Ekadashi is said to bring numerous spiritual benefits:

1. Piety and Virtue: Devotees believe that observing a fast on this day absolves them of past sins and aids in accumulating pious deeds.
2. Blessings of Vishnu: It is believed that those who worship Lord Vishnu with devotion on this day receive his blessings, ensuring prosperity and happiness.
3. Spiritual Growth: The strict observance of fasting and prayers during Ekadashi is thought to promote spiritual growth and discipline.

How to Perform Ekadashi Pooja at Home

Performing Ekadashi pooja at home is a sanctified ritual that devotees undertake with great devotion. Below is a step-by-step guide to conducting the pooja at home:

Preparations

1. Cleanse the Area: Start by cleaning the pooja area thoroughly. A clean environment is essential for invoking divine blessings.
2. Gather Supplies: Arrange all necessary items such as a picture or idol of Lord Vishnu, flowers, incense sticks, a lamp, rice grains, fruits, sweets, and tulsi leaves.

Pooja Procedure

1. Bath and Attire: Take a bath early in the morning and wear clean, preferably white or yellow, clothes.
2. Setup Altar: Place the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu on a clean altar. Decorate it with flowers and garlands.
3. Lighting the Lamp: Light a ghee or oil lamp in front of the deity.
4. Invocation: Begin by chanting the invocation mantra of Lord Vishnu, such as “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
5. Offering: Offer flowers, incense sticks, fruits, and sweets to the deity. Tulsi leaves are considered very auspicious and should be offered as well.
6. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama: Recite the Vishnu Sahasranama or read from the Bhagavad Gita.
7. Aarti: Perform the aarti with a small diya, waving it in a circular motion in front of the deity while singing aarti songs.
8. Prayers: Conclude the pooja with heartfelt prayers, seeking Lord Vishnu’s blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being.

Observing the Fast

1. Strict Fast: Devotees usually observe a strict fast, refraining from consuming grains, cereals, and certain vegetables.
2. Alternative Fast: For those unable to observe a complete fast, a partial fast involving fruits and milk is permissible.
3. Fasting Duration: The fast starts from sunrise on Ekadashi and lasts until the Parana time the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Devshayani Ekadashi?

Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi, is an important Hindu festival marking the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s four-month sleep (Chaturmas).

When is Devshayani Ekadashi in 2024?

Devshayani Ekadashi in 2024 will be observed on July 19.

What are the puja timings for Devshayani Ekadashi?

The puja timings are from 03:45 AM on July 19, 2024, to 01:30 AM on July 20, 2024.

What are the fasting guidelines for Devshayani Ekadashi?

Devotees observe a fast starting from sunrise on Ekadashi till the Parana time the next day. Strict fasting involves abstaining from grains, cereals, and certain vegetables, while a partial fast can include fruits and milk.

How do I break the Devshayani Ekadashi fast?

The fast is broken during the Parana time, which is between 06:00 AM and 08:45 AM on July 20, 2024.

Why is Devshayani Ekadashi significant?

This Ekadashi marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s sleep period. It is believed that observing this day with devotion absolves one of past sins and brings spiritual benefits.

Is it necessary to stay awake all night on Devshayani Ekadashi?

While not mandatory, staying awake and engaging in devotional activities throughout the night is considered highly meritorious.

Devshayani Ekadashi is a deeply revered occasion for Hindus, signifying the commencement of the Chaturmas period. Observing this Ekadashi with devotion through fasting, poojas, and prayers is believed to invoke the blessings of Lord Vishnu, ensuring peace, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment. Whether performed in a temple or at home, the rituals of Devshayani Ekadashi offer a profound spiritual experience, fostering a deeper connection with the divine. This is the brief information about the 2024 Devshayani Ekadashi Date Puja Timings in detail.

Click here for the 2024 Devshayani Ekadashi Date Puja Timings

Aadi Krithigai 2024 Date Puja Timings