Devuthani Ekadashi 2023: Devshayani Ekadashi ends with Tulsi marriage
Significance of Devuthani Ekadashi
Devuthani Ekadashi holds great religious significance for Hindus as it marks the end of the four-month-long period known as Chaturmas. During Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu is believed to sleep, and all religious ceremonies and festivals are prohibited. Devuthani Ekadashi, therefore, signifies the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his slumber and the commencement of the auspicious wedding season.Customs and rituals associated with Devuthani Ekadashi
On Devuthani Ekadashi, devotees observe a fast and perform special prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The fast begins on the previous day, Dashami, and ends on Ekadashi after breaking the fast with fruits and milk. Devotees also offer prayers to the Tulsi plant, considered an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, and perform the Tulsi marriage ceremony. This symbolic wedding between Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the household.In addition to fasting and prayers, devotees also participate in other rituals such as taking a holy dip in rivers or ponds, donating food and clothes to the needy, and listening to religious discourses. They refrain from consuming meat, alcohol, and other intoxicants during the fast.
