"Shayani Ekadashi: The Divine Slumber of Lord Vishnu and the Auspicious Beginning of Chaturmas"

Ashadhi Ekadashi Story

The story of Ashadi Ekadashi is associated with the town of Pandharpur in Maharashtra, India, and the famous temple dedicated to Lord Vitthal (also known as Vithoba or Panduranga). It is believed that on this day, Lord Vitthal comes to Pandharpur to meet and bless his devotees. The festival of Ashadi Ekadashi holds great significance for the devotees of Lord Vitthal.

According to the legend, there was a sage named Dadhichi who had performed intense penance to please Lord Vishnu. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before the sage and granted him a boon. Dadhichi requested the Lord to stay in Pandharpur forever so that people could easily access and worship him. Lord Vishnu agreed to the sage's request and took the form of Lord Vitthal.

On the day of Ashadi Ekadashi, devotees from various parts of Maharashtra embark on a pilgrimage known as "Wari" to reach Pandharpur. The Wari is a symbolic journey of devotion where thousands of pilgrims walk for miles, singing hymns and bhajans (devotional songs), to reach the temple of Lord Vitthal. They carry palanquins containing the padukas (footprints) of the saints Tukaram and Dnyaneshwar, who were ardent devotees of Lord Vitthal.

The arrival of the Warkaris (devotees participating in the Wari) in Pandharpur on Ashadi Ekadashi is a grand spectacle. The town is filled with joyous celebrations, music, and devotion. The devotees line up for a glimpse of Lord Vitthal and seek his blessings. The entire atmosphere is charged with spiritual energy and devotion.

The significance of Ashadi Ekadashi lies in the belief that by observing fast and engaging in prayers and devotional activities on this auspicious day, devotees can attain salvation (Moksha) and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is considered a highly meritorious occasion to express love, surrender, and devotion to Lord Vitthal.

The story and celebration of Ashadi Ekadashi in Pandharpur is deeply rooted in the traditions and culture of Maharashtra and holds a special place in the hearts of devotees of Lord Vitthal.

Shayani Ekadashi Vishnu

Shayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadi Ekadashi or Maha Ekadashi, is an important Hindu festival celebrated on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashadha. It marks the beginning of the Chaturmas, a four-month period during the monsoon season, which is considered auspicious for spiritual practices and penance.

The word "Shayani" translates to "sleeping," and this Ekadashi is commonly referred to as "Shayani Ekadashi" because it is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu goes into a deep slumber known as "Yoga Nidra" in the cosmic ocean of milk called Ksheer Sagar. Lord Vishnu rests on the serpent Shesha, who serves as his divine bed.

Devotees observe fasting and engage in prayers, bhajans, and religious rituals on Shayani Ekadashi to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. They offer flowers, fruits, and other items to the deity and spend the day in devotion and contemplation.

The significance of Shayani Ekadashi lies in the belief that by observing fasting and worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day, devotees can attain divine grace, forgiveness of sins, and spiritual upliftment. It is believed that Lord Vishnu awakens from his slumber on Prabodhini Ekadashi, which falls four months later, marking the end of the Chaturmas period.

Shayani Ekadashi holds cultural and religious significance in various parts of India. In some regions, it is celebrated as the beginning of the pilgrimage season to Pandharpur, culminating in the grand celebration of Ashadi Ekadashi.

Overall, Shayani Ekadashi is a sacred day for devotees of Lord Vishnu to express their devotion, seek blessings, and embark on a period of spiritual observances during the monsoon season.