Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi, falls on the eleventh day of the Kartik month’s Shukla Paksha according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, it will be observed on Tuesday, November 12. On this sacred day, a unique tradition of the marriage between Shaligram (a form of Lord Vishnu) and Tulsi (holy basil) is celebrated. According to Hindu beliefs, Lord Vishnu enters a state of deep meditation or Yoga Nidra on Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi and awakens four months later on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, bringing an end to the period called Chaturmas. During these four months, auspicious ceremonies like weddings are traditionally paused.
According to astrologer Vibhor Indusut, Dev Uthani Ekadashi is marked by the presence of Swayam Siddha Muhurta, a self-proven auspicious time, making it highly favorable for conducting marriage ceremonies and other significant rituals without needing additional panchang (calendar) consultation. This year, the day will be particularly significant due to the presence of Sarvarth Siddhi Yoga, an auspicious planetary alignment that enhances the spiritual power of the day.
Dev Uthani Ekadashi signifies the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his meditative slumber, and with it, all gods and goddesses are honored. People celebrate by performing Vishnu Puja, adorning their homes with Aripan (ritualistic floor designs), and singing traditional songs of good fortune. In regions like Mithilanchal and Simanchal, Dev Uthani Ekadashi holds immense cultural importance.
The Story of Dev Uthani Ekadashi
According to one legend, Lord Vishnu engaged in a fierce battle with the demon Shankhasura on Bhadrapada Shukla Ekadashi. After defeating him, Lord Vishnu, fatigued from the lengthy conflict, went to rest in the ocean of milk (Ksheer Sagar). He finally awoke on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, marking the end of his divine sleep and the beginning of auspicious occasions such as weddings, sacred thread ceremonies, and tonsure rituals.
The day is also celebrated as Dev Diwali, a festive occasion when devotees worship Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and other deities, honoring the divine awakening and inviting blessings for prosperity and well-being.