Devutthana Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh day of the waxing phase of the moon (Ekadashi) during the vedic month of Kartik. This year it falls on November 23, 2024.
New York, USA – Nov 23, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Begins – 12:33 PM on Nov 22, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Ends – 10:31 AM on Nov 23, 2023
London, UK – Nov 23, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Begins – 05:33 PM on Nov 22, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Ends – 03:31 PM on Nov 23, 2023
Chennai, India – Nov 23, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Begins – 11:03 PM on Nov 22, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Ends – 09:01 PM on Nov 23, 2023
For precise local timings, you can refer to the Cosmic Insights app.
This Ekadashi holds immense spiritual significance as it marks the conclusion of Chaturmas, a sacred four-month period of introspection, penance, and fasting. Lord Vishnu is said to enter a state of yogic sleep on Shayani Ekadashi and awakens on Prabodhini Ekadashi, which is why it’s also known as the “awakening eleventh.” This awakening symbolizes the end of a period of decreased divine intervention, and thus, many religious activities, which are suspended during Chaturmas, resume from this day.
Another significant event associated with Prabodhini Ekadashi is the celebration of Tulsi Vivah on the following day, known as Dwadashi (12th lunar day). Tulsi Vivah is a ceremonial festival that commemorates the marriage of the Tulsi plant (holy basil), considered a manifestation of Goddess Tulsi, to Lord Vishnu. The ceremony involves elaborate rituals where the Tulsi plant is adorned like a bride, and various offerings are made.
Devutthana or Prabodhini Ekadashi Rituals
- Light a Ghee Lamp: The burning flame of the lamp represents knowledge, and the dispelling of ignorance, as the light drives away darkness. Ghee, made from clarified butter, is significant for its purity and is believed to attract positive energies and divine blessings.
- Chant or Listen to Vishnu Sahasranama: Vishnu Sahasranama, a revered hymn, consists of a thousand names of Lord Vishnu, each signifying a different attribute or aspect of the deity. Reciting or listening to this powerful chant helps the devotees connect deeply with Lord Vishnu’s divine qualities and brings material and spiritual benefits.
- Participate in a Satsang to Sing Lord Vishnu’s Glories: Satsang, a gathering of like-minded individuals for spiritual discourse and singing devotional songs, serves as a platform for collective worship. Singing the glory of Lord Vishnu in such gatherings amplifies the devotional experience, fosters a sense of community, and enhances spiritual learning through shared experiences.
- Observe Ekadashi Fasting: Fasting on Ekadashi is a practice observed with great reverence. It involves abstaining from food or following a restricted diet, which is believed to purify the body and mind. This ritual is not just a physical act but also a symbol of offering of one’s sufferings to the divine.
- Honor the Tulsi Plant with a Mantra: The Tulsi plant, revered as a physical manifestation of the Goddess Tulsi, is honored with the mantra “oṁ śrī tulasyai namaḥ“.
- Circumambulation of the Tulsi Plant with a Mantra: Circumambulate, or perform ‘pradakshina’ around the Tulsi plant. While doing so, chant the mantra “यािन कािन च पापािन जन्मान्तरकृ तािन च । तािन सवािर् ण नश्यिन्त प्रदिक्षणपदे पदे ॥” Yaani Kaani Cha Paapaani Janmaantara-Krtaani Cha | Taani Sarvaanni Nashyanti Pradakssinna-Pade Pade || (translating to “All sins committed in past lives are eradicated with each step of circumambulation”) reflects the belief that each step taken around the Tulsi plant helps in the purification of the soul, erasing past karmic debts and sins.
