Devshayani Ekadashi Katha

Long ago, King Mandhata approached Lord Brahma and asked: "O Creator, why does the earth seem to enter a period of reduced vitality during the monsoon months? The people become lethargic, crops grow but with difficulty, and the usual auspiciousness seems muted."

Lord Brahma smiled and said: "O King, you have asked a most profound question. Know that on the Shukla Ekadashi of the month of Ashadha, Lord Vishnu — the Sustainer of all universes — enters His cosmic sleep, Yoganidra, resting on the great serpent Shesha in the Kshira Sagara, the ocean of milk. This period lasts for four months and is called Chaturmas."

"During these four months," Brahma continued, "all auspicious rites are suspended — marriages, thread ceremonies, and new beginnings are avoided. But this is also a time of great spiritual opportunity. Sages intensify their practices, devotees increase their japa and fasting, and the earth herself undergoes a renewal."

"The Ekadashi on which the Lord retires is called Devshayani. One who fasts on this day, worships Lord Vishnu with Tulsi, yellow flowers, and sandalwood, and spends the night in His praise, will receive His special grace for the entire Chaturmas."

King Mandhata observed this Ekadashi with great devotion. Throughout the four months that followed, he maintained a sattvic diet, increased his charitable acts, and spent more time in scripture study and prayer.

When Prabodhini Ekadashi arrived and the Lord awakened, the king found his kingdom more prosperous than ever before. His treasury was full, his subjects were healthy, and the rains had been abundant. The Lord's rest had been a period of cosmic renewal for all.