Definition
Dev Shayani Ekadashi (Ashadhi Ekadashi) is observed on Shukla Ekadashi of Ashadha (June/July). The observance lasts 1 day. Principal deities or sacred focus: Vishnu (Padmanabha); Vitthal (Pandharpur). Dev Shayani Ekadashi marks the day Vishnu goes to sleep on the cosmic serpent Ananta in the milk ocean, beginning his four-month Chaturmas. During these four months, religious ceremonies are limited. In Maharashtra, this day marks the Ashadhi Wari — the great pilgrimage of the Varkari saints to Pandharpur. Millions walk hundreds of kilometres to reach Pandharpur and have darshan of Lord Vitthal (a form of Vishnu-Krishna). The Varkari tradition begun by Sant Dnyaneshwar and later Sant Tukaram makes this one of Maharashtra's most significant spiritual events. Observances include: Fast on Ekadashi; Worship Vishnu — offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, and sweets; Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Vishnu Stotras. Celebrated across Pan-India; especially Maharashtra.
हिन्दी अर्थ
हिंदू पर्व; तिथि: Shukla Ekadashi of Ashadha (June/July); देवता: Vishnu (Padmanabha), Vitthal (Pandharpur)।
Sources Cited
- · Dharmasindhu (Kasinatha Upadhyaya)
- · Nirnaya Sindhu
- · Skanda Purana