According to the Hindu Panchang, the month of Ashadh begins after Jyeshtha Purnima every year. This month is not only a time of climatic change but also symbolizes religious awareness and spiritual purification. In 2025, Ashadh will span from June 12th to July 10th. During this special period, the worship of Lord Vishnu, observing fasts, performing charitable acts, and adopting a disciplined lifestyle are believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and peace into one's life.
Spiritual Significance of Ashadh Month
The month of Ashadh marks the time when the Gods go into 'Yognidra,' a state of divine slumber, known as Devshayani Ekadashi. This day also marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a four-month period. During this time, spiritual practices, service, charity, fasting, and self-discipline are considered highly beneficial.
Major Festivals in this Month:
- Devshayani Ekadashi
- Jagannath Rath Yatra
- Guru Purnima
These festivals are associated with the worship of Lord Vishnu and the Guru principle, symbolizing guidance and spiritual progress in life.
Religious Practices to Perform During Ashadh Month
1. Worship of Lord Vishnu and Mantra Jaap
Every morning, after bathing and wearing clean clothes, meditate on Lord Vishnu and chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya." This mantra is believed to promote mental peace, remove obstacles, and enhance self-confidence.
2. Fasting and Vrats
Observing Ekadashi fasts during Ashadh, especially Devshayani Ekadashi, is considered highly auspicious. It is believed to reduce the effects of past sins and purify the mind.
3. Charity and Service
- Donating clothes, food, umbrellas, water pots, and fans during this month is believed to bring merit.
- Providing water stations for travelers is an excellent act of service.
- Donating water is considered especially beneficial during this month.
4. Tulsi Seva and Special Remedies
- Offer water to the Tulsi plant daily.
- Tying 108 knots with a yellow thread around the Tulsi plant in Ashadh is believed to remove obstacles in marriage.
5. Sattvic and Easily Digestible Food
Consume easily digestible and light foods according to the season, such as:
- Rice, moong dal, green vegetables, seasonal fruits, etc.
- This helps maintain good health and protects against infections.
Things to Avoid During Ashadh Month
1. Avoid Tamasic Food
Refrain from consuming tamasic foods like garlic, onions, meat, and alcohol. This helps maintain spiritual purity and keeps the body healthy.
2. Avoid Cutting Trees
Cutting trees is considered prohibited during this month. Protecting nature is also a form of dharma.
3. Avoid Anger and Dishonesty
Practice self-control, peace, and truthfulness during Ashadh. Avoid harsh words and deceitful actions.
Why is Ashadh Special?
- This month marks the beginning of the monsoon season. While the environment becomes lush and green, it's also a time for self-reflection and self-improvement.
- Ashadh is the first of the four months of Chaturmas, traditionally a time for changes in lifestyle, simplicity in food, and purity in actions.
Ashadh month not only signifies the change in nature but also provides an opportunity to bring spiritual discipline into our lives. The worship of Lord Vishnu, fasting, charity, spiritual practices, and service during this month provide spiritual benefits and help alleviate life's difficulties.
