- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 04 Jul 2025 11:43 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Chaturmas 2025: A sacred four-month period in the Hindu calendar - Chaturmas is derived from the Sanskrit words "chatur" meaning four and "masa" meaning month. It spans the months of Shravan, Bhadrapada, Ashwin, and Kartik, beginning with Devshayani Ekadashi and ending with Prabodhini Ekadashi. During this time, devotees believe that Lord Vishnu rests in a state of yogic slumber, and the world is governed by Lord Shiva. This period is considered inauspicious for new beginnings, but an ideal time for spiritual growth, self-reflection and devotion. This year, Chaturmas begins on 6th July 2025 with Devshayani Ekadashi and ends on 1st November 2025 with Prabodhini or Dev Uthani Ekadashi.
Since Chaturmas is a period when Lord Vishnu goes to Yog Nidra for four months, devotees must adhere to specific dos and don’ts during this period. Below is the list of specific guidelines and rules that must be followed by the devotees during Chaturmas to avoid displeasing Lord Vishnu and committing a sin:
Chaturmas 2025: What To Do During This Period
- Eat Sattvic Food: During Chaturmas, it's essential to follow a Sattvik diet, abstaining from tamasic foods like fish, meat, and garlic. This not only benefits physical health but also nurtures spiritual growth and faith. A balanced diet helps maintain mental clarity, allowing devotees to focus on their spiritual practices.
- Adhere To Brahmacharya: Celibacy is highly recommended during Chaturmas, as it's believed that tamasic urges intensify during these months. By observing celibacy, individuals can conserve their energy and channel it towards spiritual pursuits. This practice helps cultivate self-discipline and mental clarity, allowing devotees to dive deeper into their spiritual practices.
- Observe Important Fasts: Fasting during Chaturmas can be a powerful way to purify the body and mind. By abstaining from food or limiting meals, individuals can develop self-control and increase their spiritual awareness. It is recommended that the devotees observe fast on auspicious days and events during these four months.
- Engage In Dhyana And Yoga: Meditation, yoga and satsang are essential practices during Chaturmas. These activities help to quiet the mind, balance the body and connect with the divine. Regular meditation and yoga practice can also improve mental clarity and emotional well-being.
- Offer Prayers And Donate: Worshipping Lord Vishnu and Shiva, praying to ancestors, and donating to the needy are all important aspects of Chaturmas. Donating to the poor and needy helps to develop a sense of selflessness and kindness, while worshipping the divine fosters a deeper connection with the universe and its rhythms.
- Adhere To Discipline: Living a disciplined life during Chaturmas is crucial for spiritual growth. By getting up early, going to bed early, and worshipping on time, individuals can establish a sense of routine and focus. By following these guidelines, devotees can navigate Chaturmas with greater ease and derive maximum benefit from this period.
ALSO READ: Chaturmas 2025: Start And End Date; Know Significance And Rituals To Follow
Devotees refrain from performing any auspicious activity during Chaturmas since Lord Vishnu is believed to enter Yog Nidra during these four months. (Image Source: ISKCON Bangalore)
Chaturmas 2025: What Not To Do During This Period
- Do Not Perform These Auspicious Activities: During Chaturmas, it's advisable to avoid auspicious activities like Bhoomi Pujan, Mundan Sanskar, Engagement, Marriage, Tilak Ceremony, Housewarming, and Upnayan Sanskar, as they're believed to yield unfavourable results. This period is better suited for spiritual growth, self-reflection and devotion.
- Avoid These Foods: Certain foods like curd, radish, brinjal and greens are also prohibited during Chaturmas. It's recommended to follow a Sattvik diet that promotes spiritual growth and well-being.
- Avoid Prolonged Travel And Unethical Behaviour: Devotees observing fasts or meditations during Chaturmas are advised to avoid travel and maintain a peaceful, disciplined lifestyle. It's essential to cultivate honesty, integrity and truthfulness during this period, avoiding deceit and fraud.
Observing Chaturmas with devotion and discipline can bring spiritual growth and blessings. By following the dos and don'ts, devotees can cultivate self-control, humility and compassion, aligning themselves with the divine. By embracing this sacred period, individuals can deepen their connection with Lord Vishnu and experience inner transformation, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and purposeful life.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)