Mumbai: In the Hindu calendar, Chaturmas—meaning “four holy months”—begins with Devshayani Ekadashi, which marks the day Lord Vishnu is believed to go into a deep cosmic slumber. During this time, auspicious events like weddings, housewarmings, and new business ventures are traditionally avoided. However, that doesn’t mean all activity comes to a halt. In fact, this spiritually significant phase is seen as an ideal time for inner reflection, devotion, and quiet growth.
In 2025, Chaturmas begins on 6 July (Devshayani Ekadashi) and concludes on 1 November (Devuthani Ekadashi), as per the Hindu Panchang. The period is dedicated to religious observance and mindful living, offering an opportunity to step back from worldly distractions and focus on spiritual practices that deepen your connection with the divine.
What You Can Do During Chaturmas
Despite the restrictions, many deeply rewarding spiritual activities are encouraged during Chaturmas:
- Daily Worship: Devotion to deities like Vishnu, Shiva, and other gods through prayer, chanting of mantras, listening to spiritual discourses, and reciting holy texts is considered highly beneficial during this period.
- Yagnas and Hawans: Performing sacred fire rituals is permitted and seen as a powerful way to invite blessings and purify the atmosphere.
- Pilgrimages and Holy Baths: Visiting religious places and bathing in sacred rivers is deemed auspicious and spiritually uplifting during Chaturmas.
- Charity and Service: Offering food, clothes, and assistance to those in need is encouraged. Acts of kindness performed now are believed to yield multiplied spiritual merit.
- Planting Sacred Trees: Sowing holy plants like Tulsi (basil), Peepal, and Amla is recommended as a spiritually meritorious act.
- Spiritual Study: This is an ideal time to read scriptures, philosophical texts, or other enlightening material for inner growth.
- Yoga and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation helps calm the mind and centre your energies for spiritual elevation.
Important Rules to Follow During Chaturmas
- Avoid Auspicious Ceremonies: Weddings, housewarmings, and similar events are traditionally postponed. It’s believed that since Lord Vishnu is asleep, these events do not receive divine blessings during this time.
- Eat Satvik Food: A pure vegetarian diet is preferred. Avoid onions, garlic, meat, alcohol, and tamasic (heavy or stimulating) foods. Some devotees fast or eat only once a day, while others avoid leafy vegetables or curd altogether.
- Practice Restraint: Brahmacharya (celibacy), controlling the senses, and steering clear of anger, greed, and attachment are recommended for spiritual discipline.
- Simple Living: A modest, minimalistic lifestyle free from excesses or display is ideal. Consistent devotion and regular spiritual practices are key.
- Receive Spiritual Initiation: It’s considered a powerful time to take Diksha (initiation) from a guru or begin a spiritual practice for long-term progress.
Ultimately, Chaturmas is not about restriction—it’s about realignment. By living simply, praying deeply, and acting mindfully, one can emerge from these four months renewed and spiritually enriched.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)