Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024 Date, Time, Significance, Rituals
Posted on November 10, 2024
Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi or Devotthan Ekadashi, is a sacred day for Hindus, celebrated on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November).
Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024 Date
Dev Uthani Ekadashi falls on Tuesday, November 12.
Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024 Time
Ekadashi Tithi Begins at 06:46 PM on Nov 11 and ends at 04:04 PM on Nov 12.
Significance of Dev Uthani Ekadashi
The festival has deep religious and cultural importance, especially in Vaishnavism, which regards Lord Vishnu as the preserver of the universe. According to Hindu beliefs, on Dev Shayani Ekadashi in the month of Ashadha, Lord Vishnu went into his cosmic slumber, marking a pause on auspicious events.
On Dev Uthani Ekadashi, he awakens, symbolizing a time of renewal and positive energy. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day brings his blessings for prosperity, happiness, and peace.
Many also perform Tulsi Vivah, a ritual marriage of the holy basil plant (Tulsi) with Shaligram, an avatar of Vishnu. This ritual symbolizes the beginning of the wedding season in Hindu society.
Rituals of Dev Uthani Ekadashi
Fasting and Prayers: Devotees observe a day-long fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The fast may be complete (water-only) or partial, depending on individual capacity and devotion. Devotees often spend the day in prayers, chanting Vishnu’s names, and reciting hymns and scriptures like the Vishnu Sahasranama.
Tulsi Vivah: A significant ritual on Dev Uthani Ekadashi is the symbolic marriage of Tulsi (holy basil) with Shaligram, symbolizing Lord Vishnu. The ritual is performed in temples or homes with decorated Tulsi plants, and the ceremony includes traditional wedding customs.
Decorations and Offerings: Many temples and homes are decorated with lamps, flowers, and rangolis to celebrate Vishnu’s awakening. Special foods are prepared as offerings, often without garlic or onion, and are shared among devotees and family members.
Night Vigil: In some regions, devotees keep a night vigil and participate in kirtans (devotional singing) to honour Lord Vishnu. The night is filled with devotional songs and prayers, and lamps are kept lit as a symbol of divine enlightenment.
Cultural Celebrations
The festival also brings communities together in various regions of India. In states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, large processions are organized. Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly the temples in Mathura and Vrindavan, celebrate the day with grandeur, attracting devotees from across the country.
Dev Uthani Ekadashi, thus, marks an auspicious time for devotees who seek blessings from Lord Vishnu and celebrate the revival of joyous events and community celebrations.
Categories: Festival Dates & Time
Tags: Hindu festivals 2024 dates
