Vaidehi Bhargava
Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi, holds a special significance in Hindu culture. Celebrated on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the Kartik month’s bright half, it usually falls eleven days after Diwali. This day marks the end of Chaturmas, a four-month period when Lord Vishnu is believed to be in a deep cosmic sleep. Dev Uthani Ekadashi is the day Lord Vishnu wakes up, symbolizing the return of auspicious times for both the deities and the people on Earth.
Mythological Background
According to legend, after completing his duties of preserving the world, Lord Vishnu takes a brief rest during Chaturmas, beginning on Devshayani Ekadashi in the month of Ashadha. During these months, the gods also rest, and auspicious ceremonies such as weddings, housewarmings, and other rituals are traditionally paused. With the arrival of Dev Uthani Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu awakens from his cosmic slumber, and auspicious events can resume.
Spiritual Significance and Traditions
Dev Uthani Ekadashi is a day of spiritual renewal and devotion. Devotees wake up early to perform a ritual bath and observe a fast, offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. In many regions, they prepare an altar with tulsi (holy basil) and light lamps around it, as tulsi is closely associated with Lord Vishnu. The day is filled with devotional songs, mantras, and bhajans, expressing gratitude for Lord Vishnu’s protection and blessings. This day also represents a symbolic end to the monsoon season, bringing a transition into cooler months and a season of festivals and celebrations.
Importance of Marriages on Dev Uthani Ekadashi
The day of Dev Uthani Ekadashi is especially favorable for marriages. With Lord Vishnu’s awakening, all gods are believed to resume their blessings upon the world, making it an auspicious time to start new relationships and take on new responsibilities. Many people wait for this day to begin the wedding season, and in some places, mass weddings are organized to celebrate this momentous occasion. The Tulsi Vivah, a ritual marriage of the tulsi plant (symbolizing Goddess Lakshmi) and the Shaligram stone (symbolizing Lord Vishnu), is also performed on this day, symbolizing the union of divine feminine and masculine energies.
Dev Uthani Ekadashi in Modern Times
Today, Dev Uthani Ekadashi is celebrated with as much devotion and enthusiasm as in ancient times. It is a day to reconnect with one’s spiritual roots, celebrate the divine presence in life, and begin a new phase of auspicious activities. The fast and rituals observed help devotees cultivate discipline, inner peace, and devotion, bringing positivity and joy into their lives as they embark on new beginnings blessed by Lord Vishnu.