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Rules of Chaturmas: In Sanatan Dharma, Chaturmas is considered very sacred and a time for spiritual practice. During this time, marriage, housewarming, mundan and other auspicious activities come to a halt. In the year 2026, Lord Vishnu will go into Yoga Nidra from 25th July with Harishayani Ekadashi. After this, auspicious works will start again with his awakening on 20th November 2026 on the day of Devotthan Ekadashi. Let us know why Chaturmas is considered important and what rules are followed during this time.
Chaturmas will start from 25th July
According to the Panchang, Chaturmas starts from Harishayani Ekadashi. There is a religious belief that on this day Lord Vishnu goes into Yoga Nidra in Kshirsagar and rests for the next four months. During this period, all auspicious works including marriage are stopped. Devotthan Ekadashi, which is falling this year on 20 November 2026, is the day on which Lord Vishnu wakes up from Yoganidra. After this, auspicious times for marriage and other auspicious works start again.
Why does Lord Vishnu go into Yoga Nidra?
According to Brahmavaivarta Purana, Yoganidra performed rigorous penance of Lord Vishnu. Pleased with his penance, Shri Hari gave Yoga Nidra a place in his eyes and promised to take rest for four months of the year. This period is called Chaturmas. It is told in Narad Purana that on the day of Devotthan Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu is awakened in the twilight. It is believed that during these four months, Lord Shiva takes charge of the creation.
Why do saints and mahatmas not travel during Chaturmas?
Chaturmas is considered the time of self-restraint, chanting and penance. During this time, sages and saints stay at one place and do worship, sermons and meditation. They do not undertake long journeys because the number of animals increases during the rainy season and their lives can be harmed during the journey. Many saints also observe special fasts during this period.
What is Chaumasa in Jainism?
In Jainism, Chaturmas is called Chaumasa. The basic basis of Jain philosophy is non-violence. Innumerable micro-organisms are produced during the rainy season, hence Jain monks stay at one place during this period so that they do not harm any living being even unknowingly. During this period, special emphasis is given in Jainism on penance, fasting, forgiveness and self-purification.
There is a tradition of Varshavas in Buddhism also
In Buddhism, Chaturmas is called Vasas or Varshavas. Lord Buddha had instructed his monks to stay in one monastery during the rainy season. Its purpose was to protect living beings and to pay more attention to spiritual practice. During this time, monks travel less and spend time in meditation and study.
What should be done in Chaturmas?
According to religious beliefs, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva should be worshiped regularly during Chaturmas. Reciting Shiv Purana, Shrimad Bhagwat or other religious texts is considered auspicious. Chanting of Mahamrityunjaya Mantra and Vishnu Mantras, charity, cow service, service to the elderly, helping the needy and adopting a virtuous life have been given special importance.
What should not be done in Chaturmas?
During this period, marriage, house warming, mundan, upanayana, bhoomi pujan, construction of a new building, big auspicious ceremonies and other auspicious activities are avoided. Many people also avoid purchasing valuable items and starting new auspicious works at this time.
Religious significance of Chaturmas
Chaturmas is not only a time to stop auspicious activities, but it is also considered an opportunity for self-purification, restraint and spiritual progress. For four months a person develops a sense of discipline, devotion and service in his life. This is the reason why this period has special importance in all three traditions, Sanatan, Jain and Buddhist.
Also read: 15th or 16th July, when is Karka Sankranti? Note down the exact time and method of worship of Mahapunya Kaal.
Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.
