On this day Lord Vishnu will go into Yoga Nidra for four months. This time is called Chaturmas. This period is dedicated to devotion, penance and self-reflection. It is believed that during this time Lord Vishnu rests on the bed of Sheshnag in Ksheer Sagar. The religious importance of Yoga Nidra and Chaturmas is very deep.
What is the religious significance of Chaturmas?
The time of Chaturmas is considered very sacred and spiritual in Hindu religion. During this time, Lord Vishnu goes into Yoga Nidra and hands over the responsibility of running the universe to Lord Shiva. Yoga Nidra is not an ordinary sleep, but a deep spiritual state, in which God gives his creation a chance to become balanced. Chaturmas starts from Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi and continues till Kartik Shukla Ekadashi (Devprabodhini Ekadashi). This time is a special occasion for devotees for penance, meditation and devotion. It is believed that religious activities done during this period, such as fasting, charity and devotion to God, are manifold fruitful. There is rainy season at this time.
Mythological stories behind Yoga Nidra are popular
There are many mythological stories prevalent about Lord Vishnu going into Yoga Nidra, which shows its importance.
Story of King Bali and Lord Vishnu
According to Padma Purana and Bhagwat Purana, Lord Vishnu in his Vamana incarnation had asked for three paces of land from the demon king Bali. Bali in his devotion and generosity dedicated everything to God. Pleased, Lord Vishnu gave a boon to Bali that he would become his gatekeeper but due to the absence of Lord Vishnu, the order in Vaikuntha started getting affected. Mother Lakshmi prayed to Bali to free the Lord. Bali requested Lord Vishnu to stay with him in the underworld for four months (Chaturmas) in a year and for the rest of the time in Vaikuntha. Lord Vishnu accepts this and spends time with Bali in the underworld by being in Yoga Nidra during Chaturmas.
story of balance of creation
According to another legend, Lord Vishnu goes into Yoga Nidra to maintain balance in the operations of creation. The creation is done by Brahma, maintained by Vishnu and destroyed by Lord Shiva. During Chaturmas, when the rainy season occurs, new greenery and life are infused into the universe. At this time, Lord Vishnu takes rest and gives the universe an opportunity to balance itself. His sleep symbolizes the regeneration of creation and harmony with nature.
Story of Sheshnag and Ksheer Sagar
It is also described in the Puranas that Lord Vishnu rests in Yoga Nidra on the bed of Sheshnag in the Kshir Sagar. Sheshnag is the symbol of foundation and infinity of creation, providing his bed to Lord Vishnu.
Disclaimer: The information given here is based on religious scriptures and is being given for information only. News24 does not confirm this.