Varanasi,

6 July (HS): On the auspicious occasion of Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi or

Harishayani Ekadashi, on Sunday, devotees in the holy city of Kashi took a holy

dip in the Ganga and worshipped Lord Vishnu -- did charity and observed a fast.

With this, the four-month long 'Chaturmas' fast of saints and good householders

has also begun, which will continue till Kartik Shukla Ekadashi

(Hariprabodhini).

From

Harishayani Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu goes into Yog Nidra in Kshirsagar. During

this time, all auspicious and mangal works come to a halt. Mangal works like

marriage, Grihapravesh, Mundan, Yajnopaveet etc. will now be performed only

after Kartik Shukla Ekadashi.

Chaturmas:

Four months of meditation and restraint: The period of Chaturmas is considered

extremely sacred in Sanatan Dharma. During this period, saints and mahatmas

stay in their ashrams or monasteries and do penance, chanting and worship Shri

Hari. They recite Shri Vishnu Sahasranama, Shri Vishnu Chalisa, Purushsukta,

Vishnu Mantras and lead a restrained life.

Householders

also observe the Chaturmasya fast. They give up tamasic food items like leafy

vegetables, curd in the month of Bhadrapad, milk in the month of Ashwin and

brinjal during this period. The vratis usually sleep on the ground and eat

satvik food once a day.

Mahadev

controls the universe: According to Dr. Mridul Mishra of Shiv Aradhana Samiti,

during Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu remains in Yog Nidra, in such a situation Lord Shiva

controls the universe. This is why this period is also considered special for

Shiva worship and meditation. According to mythological beliefs, Lord Vishnu

lived in Patal Lok as per the boon given to King Bali. This is why this time is

considered to be the period of his Yog Nidra.

Best

time for spiritual practice: Dr Mishra said that the Chaturmas period is the

best time for self-introspection, spiritual practice, reading of religious

texts, sensory control, satvik diet and pious deeds. Attempts are made to

elevate the soul through reading of Ramayana, Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta and other

religious texts, pilgrimage, service and charity. In Sanatan Dharma, this

period is not only for fasting and sacrifice, but also an opportunity to make

life more satvik, disciplined and Godly.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi