As per the Bhavishyottra Purana, Bhagwan Vishnu goes to sleep on Ashadi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, Padma Ekadashi and Hari Ekadashi, which falls on the eleventh lunar day of the fortnight twice a year. Fasting on this day is believed to bring a sadhak, a spiritual practitioner, closer to the Lord and seek his blessings.
King Mandata’s prosperous kingdom faced a severe drought that led to starvation among his people. Seeking a solution, he undertook a journey and met Sage Angira, who advised him to observe a fast on Ashadi Ekadashi. King Mandata followed the sage’s advice, and his kingdom was saved. Fasting on Ashadi Ekadashi brings us closer to the Lord and aids our digestive system.
The Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage in Maharashtra is an annual event. Devotees from all walks of life walk to Vithoba, demonstrating that there is no discrimination in this journey. A few days before Ekadashi, Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated. Through these yatras, people reach out to Bhagwan Vishnu in the forms of Vithoba and Jagannath. Ashadi Ekadashi also signals the beginning of Chatur Mas, four months of devotion.
Ashadi Ekadashi is on July 17