Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi or Devutthana Ekadashi, is a highly revered day in Hinduism, celebrated in the month of Kartik. This special Ekadashi marks the end of Chaturmas, the four-month period during which auspicious events like weddings and new ventures are traditionally avoided. On this day, Lord Vishnu, believed to have gone into divine slumber (Yoga Nidra) on Devshayani Ekadashi in Ashadha, awakens, marking a time of renewal, prosperity, and spiritual awakening. This day holds great significance for devotees and is associated with rituals, fasting, and Tulsi Vivah.

Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024 Date and Time

Here are the date and timing details for observing Dev Uthani Ekadashi in 2024:

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: November 11, 2024, at 06:46 PM
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: November 12, 2024, at 04:04 PM
• Parana (Breaking the Fast): November 12, 2024, from 06:42 AM to 08:51 AM

The Ekadashi Vrat (fast) is observed on November 11, 2024, with the fast-breaking, or Parana, taking place on November 12 after sunrise during the Dwadashi Tithi. Observing the fast from sunrise to sunrise brings the most benefits.

Significance of Dev Uthani Ekadashi

Dev Uthani Ekadashi is a deeply spiritual day with symbolic importance in Hinduism. Here are some of the main reasons why this Ekadashi holds such great significance:

1. The Awakening of Lord Vishnu
   • According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu enters a state of cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on Devshayani Ekadashi in Ashadha month and awakens on Dev Uthani Ekadashi in Kartik. His awakening represents a renewal of divine energies and the end of a period of inactivity, making it a favourable time for all kinds of auspicious activities.
2. End of Chaturmas
   • Dev Uthani Ekadashi signifies the conclusion of Chaturmas (the holy four months), during which weddings and new ventures are traditionally avoided. With the Lord’s awakening, these activities can resume, making this a popular Hindu wedding and celebration season.
3. Tulsi Vivah
   • Dev Uthani Ekadashi is also known for the Tulsi Vivah ceremony, a symbolic marriage of the holy Tulsi plant (representing Goddess Lakshmi) with Lord Vishnu in the form of Shaligram (a sacred black stone). Tulsi Vivah is celebrated to invoke blessings for marital happiness and prosperity, and it is an integral part of Dev Uthani Ekadashi rituals.
4. Fasting for Spiritual Cleansing
   • Observing a fast on Dev Uthani Ekadashi is believed to cleanse past sins and elevate spiritual consciousness. Many devotees abstain from grains, lentils, and certain foods, while others observe a complete fast to honour Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings.
5. New Beginnings and Prosperity
   • Dev Uthani Ekadashi is an ideal time to start new ventures, make important decisions, and seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings for success and prosperity. This day holds positive energy, symbolizing fresh starts and the triumph of good over negativity.

Rituals and Celebrations on Dev Uthani Ekadashi

1. Fasting and Devotional Prayers
   • Devotees observe a fast on this Ekadashi, refraining from certain foods and dedicating the day to meditation, prayers, and devotional singing. Vishnu Sahasranama (a thousand names of Lord Vishnu) is commonly recited, and devotees visit temples to seek blessings.
2. Tulsi Vivah Ceremony
   • Tulsi Vivah, or the marriage of the Tulsi plant with Lord Vishnu, is a beautiful and symbolic ritual performed on Dev Uthani Ekadashi or the following day. Families decorate the Tulsi plant, dress it as a bride, and conduct a marriage ceremony with prayers, offerings, and blessings. This ceremony is believed to bring marital harmony and prosperity to the family.
3. Decorating Homes and Temples
   • People decorate their homes and temples with rangoli (colourful floor art), flowers, and oil lamps (diyas) to celebrate the divine awakening of Lord Vishnu. This festive atmosphere creates a welcoming space for positive energies and blessings.
4. Reading the Dev Uthani Ekadashi Katha
   • Many devotees read or listen to the Dev Uthani Ekadashi Katha (the story of Dev Uthani Ekadashi), which narrates the significance of the day, how it came into being, and the blessings Lord Vishnu bestows on those who observe this fast with dedication.
5. Breaking the Fast (Parana)
   • The fast is broken the day after Ekadashi, during the Dwadashi Tithi. This ritual of breaking the fast is known as Parana, and observing it during the specific time to complete the fast is essential.

Benefits of Observing Dev Uthani Ekadashi

1. Spiritual Cleansing and Merit
   • Fasting and prayers on Dev Uthani Ekadashi are believed to remove negative karma and past sins, allowing devotees to progress on their spiritual path with purity and grace.
2. Divine Protection and Prosperity
   • By observing Dev Uthani Ekadashi, devotees seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings for peace, prosperity, and protection from misfortunes. This day is considered highly auspicious for initiating new endeavours, such as marriage, career decisions, or investments.
3. Marital Bliss and Family Harmony
   • The Tulsi Vivah ceremony is seen as an invocation for harmony and happiness in married life. It honours the union of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu, and families who perform this ritual receive blessings for marital success and familial prosperity.
4. Favourable Time for New Beginnings
   • Dev Uthani Ekadashi marks the end of Chaturmas and is ideal for starting new ventures. Whether it’s a business, a wedding, or a new home, beginning these activities on Dev Uthani Ekadashi ensures lasting success and happiness.

Conclusion

Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024 is a day of profound spiritual significance, celebrated with devotion, fasting, and rituals. The awakening of Lord Vishnu, the end of Chaturmas, and the Tulsi Vivah ceremony make this Ekadashi a time of renewal, blessings, and positive beginnings. Observing Dev Uthani Ekadashi with devotion brings peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. For those looking to start new ventures, strengthen relationships, or seek divine protection, Dev Uthani Ekadashi offers a promising opportunity to do so with the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Prepare to celebrate this sacred day with a pure heart, and may Dev Uthani Ekadashi 2024 bring divine grace, harmony, and happiness to you and your loved ones.