According to the Hindu Panchang, Devshayani Ekadashi is observed on the Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi. This date is very special because it marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu's four-month period of yoganidra (yogic sleep). Therefore, observing a fast and performing worship on this day is considered highly fruitful.
This year, Devshayani Ekadashi falls on July 6, 2025. Devotees who observe a fast on this day spend the entire day in fasting, devotion, and remembering the name of Vishnu. However, sometimes, unintentionally, something happens that breaks the fast. Many people are confused about what to do in such a situation.
Let's find out what should be done, from a religious perspective, if the Devshayani Ekadashi fast is accidentally broken.
When is Devshayani Ekadashi celebrated?
According to the Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashadha begins on July 5 at 6:58 PM and ends on July 6 at 9:14 PM. Since Udaya Tithi is given importance in Hinduism, Devshayani Ekadashi will be celebrated on July 6 this year.
Why is Devshayani Ekadashi special?
Devshayani Ekadashi is also significant because it marks the beginning of Chaturmas. During Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu goes into yoganidra in the Kshira Sagar (Ocean of Milk). During this time, all auspicious activities like marriage, mundan (tonsure), and housewarming are paused.
Fasters wake up early in the morning on this day, take a bath, take a vow for the fast, and worship Lord Hari Vishnu. They fast throughout the day and perform jagaran (vigil) and bhajan-kirtan (devotional singing) at night.
What to do if the fast is accidentally broken?
If something is eaten by mistake, or water is consumed accidentally, breaking the fast, according to the scriptures, some special remedies are prescribed to atone for the fault of the fast.
First, take a bath
If the fast is broken, first wear clean clothes and take a bath again. Bathing is considered to purify the body and mind.
Perform Abhishek of Lord Vishnu with Panchamrit
Then, bathe the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu with Panchamrit (milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar). This Abhishek helps in providing a pure and holy environment.
Perform Shodashopchar Puja
After this, perform a proper puja of Lord Vishnu. Offer incense, lamps, flowers, sandalwood, Akshata (unbroken rice), Tulsi leaves, and Bhog (offering of food). Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama or Vishnu Chalisa during the puja is also beneficial.
Special Mantra for Seeking Forgiveness
At the end of the puja, it is very important to ask for forgiveness from the Lord. For this, a special mantra is given in the scriptures, by chanting which with devotion, one gets the blessing to forgive the mistake:
Aavahanam Na Janaami Na Janaami Visarjanam.
Pujaam Chaiva Na Janaami Kshamasva Parameshvara॥
Mantrahinam Kriyaaheenam Bhaktiheenam Janaardana.
Yatpujitam Mayaa Deva! Paripoorna Tadastu Me॥
This mantra should be recited at the place of worship, with folded hands and devotion.
Chant the Vishnu Mantra
If possible, take a Tulsi mala (rosary) and chant the Dwadasakshara mantra of Vishnu. This mantra is:
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Chanting this mantra at least one mala, i.e., 108 times, brings peace to the mind and the puja...
