Every year, Ashadhi Ekadashi brings millions together in prayer, song, and unwavering devotion. Falling in the Hindu month of Ashadha, it holds special importance for followers of Lord Vithoba (a form of Vishnu) and is one of the most celebrated Ekadashis in Maharashtra and Goa. In 2025, Ashadhi Ekadashi will be observed on Saturday, July 5th.
What is Ashadhi Ekadashi?
Ashadhi Ekadashi, also known as Shayani Ekadashi or Devshayani Ekadashi, marks the beginning of Chaturmas, the four holy months when Lord Vishnu is believed to go into deep yogic sleep (yoga nidra). Devotees believe that any act of devotion during this period yields great spiritual merit.
The Warkari Tradition and Pandharpur Yatra
In Maharashtra, lakhs of Warkaris (devotees of Lord Vithoba) walk for days to reach Pandharpur, the main temple town dedicated to Vithoba and Rukmini. The palkhi processions, carrying the sandals (padukas) of saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar, attract millions of pilgrims. Devotees walk barefoot, sing abhangs (devotional hymns), and wave saffron flags, filling the roads with faith, rhythm, and unity.
How Goans Observe Ashadhi Ekadashi
In Goa, devotees visit Vithal temples in areas like Sanquelim and Marcela. Families observe fasts, recite Vishnu Sahasranama, and sing bhajans through the night. Many Goan Hindu homes also perform a Satyanarayan puja, distribute prasadam, and avoid grains during the day. Temples host dindis (devotional processions), often led by children and elders, dressed in white and singing praises of Vithoba.
Fasting and Rituals on Ashadhi Ekadashi
Devotees observe a strict ekadashi fast, abstaining from rice, grains, onions, and garlic. Most consume fruits, milk, or farali (vrat) foods like sabudana khichdi, rajgira, or sweet potatoes. Some maintain a complete nirjala vrat (without food or water) for 24 hours. The night is spent in bhajan, kirtan, and reading scriptures. At dawn, devotees offer tulsi, flowers, and chandan to the deity.
Symbolism and Spiritual Significance
Ashadhi Ekadashi reminds devotees to pause, reflect, and align with divine rhythm. As Lord Vishnu sleeps, people commit to spiritual practices, humility, and simplicity for the next four months. It is a time of inner awakening and purification, especially powerful for those seeking blessings or starting a spiritual journey.
