Devasayani Ekadasi, also known as Sayana Ekadashi, occurs
during the shukla paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Ashada month (June – July).
In 2012, the date of Devasayani Ekadasi is June 30. Devashayani Ekadasi is also
known as Hari Sayan Ekadasi as it is believed that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep
after this Ekadasi as it is the night of devas with the beginning of
Dakshinayana. Ekadasi Fasting is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and falls on the 11th
day of a lunar fortnight in traditional Hindu Calendar.
Devasayani Ekadashi is popularly known as Ashadi Ekadasi in
Maharashtra and it marks the end of the Pandarpur Yatra. The Chaturmas (four
Hindu holy months) and the Chaturmasa Vrata also begins in some regions on
Sayana Ekadasi.
Thousands of devotees also take a holy dip in Godavari River
on the day and pay obeisance to Lord Rama at Kala Ram temple.
The importance of Sayana Ekadasi was explained to Sage
Narada by Lord Brahma. Lord Krishna narrated about the greatness of it to
Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas. The glory of Devasayani is mentioned
in the Bhavisyottara Purana.
It is believed that those who observe this Ekadashi is
blessed with peace and happiness. Even hearing about it is considered highly
auspicious. Interestingly, Devasayani Ekadashi is observed as a mark of pure
devotion and there is not desire or fulfillment of material gains.
Those who fast on the day do not eat rice or food prepared
using rice. All the normal rituals associated with Ekadasi fasting is followed.
Devout devotees of Vishnu start the preparation of Chaturmas Vrata from this
day..