Devashayani Ekadashi 2026

Devashayani Ekadashi: When Sri Hari Enters Yoga Nidra

Devashayani Ekadashi falls on Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi, the eleventh day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha. On this day Lord Vishnu is believed to begin his yoga nidra (cosmic sleep) on Adishesha in the Ksheera Sagara. It is also called Shayana Ekadashi, Harishayani Ekadashi and Padma Ekadashi, and Telugu families celebrate the same day as Toli Ekadashi.

Yoga Nidra and Chaturmasya

From Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi to Kartika Shukla Ekadashi (Utthana Ekadashi), roughly four months, the Lord is said to rest. This period is Chaturmasya. Falling in the monsoon, it is a time for restraint, japa and simple food. Sannyasis stay in one place and observe Chaturmasya deeksha; in some traditions the deeksha starts on Ashadha Pournami. Householders also take up a small vow, such as giving up one food item or doing a daily parayanam.

The Story of King Mandhata

In the kingdom of the great Suryavamsha emperor Mandhata, there was no rain for three years and famine spread. Unable to bear his people's suffering, the king went to the forest and sought Sage Angirasa's help. The sage told him to observe the Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi (Padma Ekadashi) along with his subjects. When they did so with devotion, abundant rain fell and the land prospered, says the Bhavishyottara Purana.

Puja Steps

• Bathe early and clean the home and puja space.
• Decorate an image of Lord Vishnu reclining on Shesha with a yellow cloth and flowers.
• Do shodashopachara puja with tulasi, water from a conch, sandal paste, incense and lamp.
• Recite "Shantakaram Bhujagashayanam" and Vishnu Sahasranamam.
• Some temples and families prepare a small bed for the Lord and ceremonially put him to rest.
• Make the sankalpa for whatever Chaturmasya vow you plan to keep.

Significance

While the Lord is in yoga nidra, auspicious events such as weddings and housewarmings are generally fewer. Elders advise using this time for reflection, devotion and service instead. Observing this Ekadashi with fasting, jagarana and charity is believed to bring Sri Hari's protection through the year.

May Sriman Narayana, entering his sacred rest, keep the whole world safe and peaceful.