- By Kashish Rai
- Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:08 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024: Prabodhini Ekadashi or Dev Uthani Ekadashi marks the end of Lord Vishnu's four-month-long sleep. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu falls asleep on Ashadha Ekadashi and wakes up on Kartik Ekadashi, signalling the start of the auspicious period. This day is considered sacred for new beginnings, marriages, and important life events. Devotees fast, worship Lord Vishnu and offer prayers to seek his blessings. The day also symbolises the victory of good over evil, as Lord Vishnu's awakening is believed to bring prosperity and happiness. This year, Dev Uthani Ekadashi is being observed on 12th November 2024.
On this auspicious day, devotees must follow certain rules and regulations to avoid displeasing Lord Vishnu. Below is the list of dos and don’ts that must be followed on the occasion of Dev Uthani Ekadashi:
Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024: Dos And Don’ts To Follow On Uthani Ekadashi Vrat
DO’S
Fasting and Dietary Restrictions: On Dev Uthani Ekadashi, devotees should observe a strict fast or vrat, abstaining from food and water. If a complete fast isn't possible, consume only fruits, vegetables, and milk products. Avoid grains, cereals, and pulses. This fasting helps purify the mind and body. Avoid onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food. By controlling food cravings, devotees demonstrate self-discipline and devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Early Morning Puja and Worship: Perform an early morning puja, ideally during Brahma Muhurta (4:30-6:00 am). Bathe, wear clean clothes, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. Light lamps, incense sticks, and offer flowers, fruits, and naivedya (prasad). Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, recite Bhagavad Gita, or sing devotional songs. This puja helps seek Lord Vishnu's blessings and protection. Use this opportunity to meditate, reflect on your actions, and seek forgiveness.
Visiting Temples and Holy Rivers: Visit Lord Vishnu temples or holy rivers like the Ganges or Yamuna to seek blessings. Take a holy dip, if possible, to purify your soul. Participate in temple rituals, listen to discourses, and engage in devotional activities. This helps connect with the divine and seek spiritual growth. If visiting a temple or river isn't possible, create a sacred atmosphere at home with family and friends.
Charity and Donations: Engage in charitable activities, such as donating to the poor, orphanages, or temples. Offer food, clothing, or other essential items to those in need. This act of kindness and generosity pleases Lord Vishnu and earns spiritual merit. Donate according to your means, even if it's a small amount. Selfless giving cultivates compassion, humility, and spiritual growth.
Spiritual Reflection and Meditation: Use Dev Uthani Ekadashi to introspect, reflect on your actions, and seek forgiveness. Meditate on Lord Vishnu's teachings and life lessons. Chant mantras, practice yoga, or engage in other spiritual activities to connect with your inner self. Set aside time for self-reflection, goal-setting, and personal growth. This helps cultivate mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual awareness, aligning you with Lord Vishnu's divine energies.
Dev Uthani Ekadashi is one of the most significant Ekadashi fasts in Hinduism when Lord Vishnu is believed to wake up from this 4-month-long cosmic slumber. (Image Source: Canva)
DON’TS
Avoid Grains, Cereals, and Certain Foods: On Dev Uthani Ekadashi, avoid consuming grains, cereals, pulses, and certain foods like onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Also, steer clear of non-vegetarian food, eggs, and alcohol. These foods are considered tamasic and can hinder spiritual growth. Refrain from consuming food from outside or prepared by non-devotees. Instead, opt for sattvic foods like fruits, vegetables, and milk products to maintain purity and spiritual discipline.
Refrain from Unholy Activities: Abstain from unholy activities like lying, gossiping, and criticising others. Avoid watching or engaging in harmful or sensual content. Refrain from arguing, quarrelling, or using harsh words. Instead, focus on spiritual growth, self-reflection, and positive interactions. Maintain a peaceful and calm atmosphere, conducive to spiritual practices.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)