Prabodhini Ekadashi, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi or Devutthana Ekadashi, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated Ekadashi festivals in the Hindu calendar. This day is especially important because it marks the end of a four-month period called Chaturmas, during which Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is believed to be in a state of deep sleep or yoga nidra.
Prabodhini Ekadashi, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi or Devutthana Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu festival that falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi). It falls on the eleventh day of the waxing moon phase (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Kartik, typically in October or November. It marks the end of the four-month period known as Chaturmas, during which Lord Vishnu is believed to be in a state of deep sleep (Yoga Nidra).
On this day, it is believed that Lord Vishnu wakes up, and the day is celebrated with prayers, fasting, and various rituals. Prabodhini Ekadashi is also considered an auspicious time for marriages and other religious ceremonies, as the “Divine Wedding” of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Tulsi (Tulsi Vivah) is observed on this day.
Devotees observe a fast, perform special pujas, and sing devotional songs in praise of Lord Vishnu. The festival holds great significance, especially in regions like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. In Gujarat, the festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, often involving large processions, especially in pilgrimage sites like the Dwarkadhish Temple in Dwarka.
The Story Behind Prabodhini Ekadashi:
The significance of Prabodhini Ekadashi is rooted in Hindu mythology. According to the Vishnu Puran and Padma Puran, Lord Vishnu goes into a deep sleep on Devshayani Ekadashi (the Ekadashi in the month of Ashadha, usually in June or July) and awakens on Prabodhini Ekadashi. During this period of four months, known as Chaturmas, auspicious activities such as marriages are generally avoided.
The awakening of Lord Vishnu on Prabodhini Ekadashi signifies the end of this period, and thus, the beginning of a new cycle of religious and social activities.
Significance of Prabodhini Ekadashi:
- Spiritual Awakening: The day symbolizes the awakening of the divine and is seen as a time for devotees to awaken spiritually. The rituals are designed to purify the mind and soul.
- End of Chaturmas: With the end of Lord Vishnu’s sleep, the period of Chaturmas also ends, and with it, the season of austerity. This makes Prabodhini Ekadashi an auspicious time for starting new ventures, marriages, and other important activities.
- Devotion and Fasting: Fasting on Ekadashi is considered highly meritorious, believed to wash away sins and bring the devotee closer to moksha (liberation).
Rituals of Prabodhini Ekadashi:
- Fasting: Devotees observe a fast on this day, which is a common practice on Ekadashi days. The fast can be a full fast (nirjala, meaning without water) or partial, depending on one’s physical capacity. The fasting ritual is believed to cleanse the body and mind, making devotees more receptive to spiritual enlightenment.
- Puja and Prayers: Special prayers and pujas are offered to Lord Vishnu on this day. Temples are decorated, and various offerings like fruits, flowers, and sweets are made. The recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama (a hymn comprising the 1,000 names of Vishnu) and other sacred texts is a common practice.
- Tulsi Vivah: A significant event associated with Prabodhini Ekadashi is the ceremonial marriage of Lord Vishnu (in his Shaligram form) with the sacred Tulsi plant, representing Goddess Tulsi. This ritual is symbolic of the divine union and is often performed with much devotion and ceremony. The Tulsi plant is worshipped, dressed as a bride, and married to Lord Vishnu. This marks the beginning of the wedding season in Hindu culture.
- Processions and Celebrations: In many parts of India, particularly in Gujarat and Maharashtra, large processions are organized. In Dwarka, the Dwarkadhish Temple hosts grand celebrations. Devotees participate in singing bhajans (devotional songs), kirtans, and dancing in devotion to Lord Vishnu.
- Lighting Lamps: Lighting lamps, particularly in the evening, is an important part of the celebrations. These lamps are believed to dispel darkness and symbolize the awakening of Lord Vishnu.
Regional Variations:
- Gujarat: In Gujarat, the festival is marked by vibrant processions, especially in places like Dwarka and Dakor. The temples are beautifully decorated, and a large number of devotees gather to participate in the rituals. The Tulsi Vivah ceremony is also celebrated with great enthusiasm.
- Maharashtra: In Maharashtra, the festival is also celebrated as Kartiki Ekadashi. The Vithoba Temple in Pandharpur witnesses a large gathering of devotees who come to seek blessings from Lord Vithoba, a form of Lord Vishnu.
- Rajasthan: In Rajasthan, Prabodhini Ekadashi is observed with various rituals and fairs. The Tulsi Vivah ceremony is particularly prominent.
