Devshayani Ekadashi 2026 Marks Start of Chaturmas with Vishnu’s Yoga‑Nidra and Ritual Guidelines

Devshayani Ekadashi fell on 25 July 2026, initiating the four‑month Chaturmas period when Lord Vishnu is believed to enter Yoga‑Nidra in the Ocean of Milk. During this time, auspicious activities such as marriages and house‑warmings are avoided, while devotional practices gain special merit.

Traditional observances include offering a south‑facing conch filled with Ganga water and cow’s milk to Vishnu, presenting tulsi leaves, lighting lamps near peepal trees, chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vāsudevāya” at least 108 times, and donating yellow‑coloured items to the needy. The recommended muhurat for breaking the fast on 26 July runs from 06:13 a.m. to 08:50 a.m., with the parana to be performed on the subsequent dwādashi.

According to scriptural belief, other deities take charge of worldly affairs during Chaturmas: Shiva in Sawan, Krishna in Bhādrapada, Ganesha on Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga during Navratri, and finally Lakshmi and Kubera from Dev Uthani Ekadashi in November.