Devshayani Ekadashi 2025: Why Lord Vishnu Sleeps For Four Months? Know Lesser-Known Legend

Devshayani Ekadashi 2025: Ashadhi Ekadashi or Devshayani Ekadashi, falling on the Ekadashi tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha, marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s cosmic slumber known as Yog Nidra. On this deeply spiritual day, devotees observe a fast and spend time in prayer and devotion to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the Lord rests in Kshirsagar for four months, and during this period, no auspicious ceremonies like marriages take place. Devshayani Ekadashi offers a moment of inner stillness, inviting us to reflect, recharge spiritually, and align with divine energies while Lord Vishnu rests in cosmic peace until Prabodhini Ekadashi. This year, Devshayani Ekadashi falls on 6th July 2025.

However, have you wondered why Lord Vishnu sleeps for four long months starting from Devshayani Ekadashi till Prabodhini Ekadashi? Let us know below:

Devshayani Ekadashi 2025: Why Lord Vishnu Sleeps For Four Months? Know Lesser-Known Legend

In Hindu tradition, Lord Vishnu’s four-month sleep, known as Yog Nidra, begins on Devshayani Ekadashi in the month of Ashadha (June–July) and ends on Prabodhini Ekadashi in Kartik (October–November). This period is called Chaturmas, meaning “four months,” and is considered a spiritually significant phase in the Vedic calendar. Symbolically, it represents a divine pause, inviting self-discipline, inner reflection and deeper connection with dharma (cosmic order).

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Lord Vishnu’s Yog Nidra is a divine, cosmic slumber where he rests in deep meditation on the serpent Ananta in Kshirsagar, symbolising universal stillness, spiritual pause and inner balance. (Image Source: ISKCON Bangalore) 

As per the legends, it is believed that during this time, Lord Vishnu lies in cosmic slumber on the serpent Sheshnag in the Kshirsagar, the ocean of milk. But there’s also another beautiful story associated with King Bali, a generous and powerful Asura king. When Vishnu incarnated as Vamana, the dwarf Brahmin, He asked for three steps of land. Bali agreed, and with two steps, Vamana covered the earth and heavens. With nowhere left, Bali offered his own head. Touched by his devotion, Lord Vishnu granted him a boon, to visit him in Patal Lok (the netherworld). Vishnu promised to stay with him there during Chaturmas every year.

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This story adds depth to the tradition, reminding devotees that even in the underworld, divine presence exists where devotion is pure. During these months, devotees focus on penance, simplicity, and spiritual growth, reflecting the cosmic stillness of the universe. Marriages and major ceremonies are usually avoided, and people adopt a more introspective lifestyle.When Lord Vishnu awakens on Prabodhini Ekadashi, the energy of auspicious beginnings returns. His divine sleep reminds us of the importance of rest, surrender and timeless devotion.

(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.)