According to the Hindu Panchang, Devshayani Ekadashi is celebrated every year on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashadha. This date is considered the beginning of Lord Vishnu's Yog Nidra. It is said that from this day, Lord Vishnu goes into a four-month period of rest in the Ksheer Sagar, also known as Chaturmas. During this time, no auspicious activities such as marriage, mundan (tonsure ceremony), etc. are performed.
In 2025, the Devshayani Ekadashi fast will be observed on July 6, Sunday. On this special occasion, along with the worship of Lord Vishnu, performing some specific remedies related to Tulsi (holy basil) is believed to bring happiness, peace, and prosperity into life.
Tulsi's Special Place with Lord Vishnu
The Tulsi plant is not just an ordinary plant; its place in religious beliefs is considered equivalent to a Goddess. In the scriptures, Tulsi is described as dear to Shri Hari (Lord Vishnu), and its use is considered mandatory in every worship of Lord Vishnu.
By performing some remedies related to Tulsi on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi, one can get rid of many problems in life and obtain the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Lighting a Lamp Near Tulsi
On this special day, there is a tradition of lighting a lamp near Tulsi. It is believed that lighting a lamp near Tulsi eliminates the negative atmosphere of the house and brings positive energy. On this day, a lamp of pure desi ghee or sesame oil is lit near Tulsi in the evening.
While lighting the lamp, the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" is chanted. Also, one should circumambulate Tulsi 3 or 7 times. This remedy is considered very auspicious for peace, health, and prosperity.
However, on this day, one should not pluck Tulsi leaves nor offer water to Tulsi, because it is believed that on the day of Ekadashi, Tulsi Mata also observes a fast and worships Lord Vishnu.
Offering a Red Chunari to Tulsi
Offering a red chunari (scarf) to Tulsi on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi is considered very auspicious. It is considered a means of obtaining the blessings of both Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
On this day, after bathing the Tulsi plant in the morning, offer a red chunari to it. Along with this, worship with flowers, rice, and incense. The red chunari is considered a symbol of happiness, prosperity, and good fortune.
By doing this, love remains in family life, and the troubles that come in marital life are removed. Many people also believe that offering a red chunari brings Lakshmi into the house and removes financial crises.
Tying Kalava on Tulsi
Tying Kalava (protective thread) on Tulsi on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi is also considered an auspicious remedy. This remedy is done specifically for the fulfillment of wishes.
In the morning, after worshiping the Tulsi plant, one should wrap the Kalava three or seven times and tie it. While tying the Kalava, express your wish in your mind. It is believed that this remedy fulfills your desires.
When your wish is fulfilled, the Kalava should be untied and immersed in a holy river or flowing water. If this is done with reverence and faith, Lord Vishnu is particularly pleased.
Offering Sandalwood Paste and Flowers to Tulsi
On this day, offering white flowers and sandalwood paste to Tulsi Mata is also considered auspicious. White flowers are considered symbols of peace and purity. Sandalwood, on the other hand, is very dear to Lord Vishnu.
Offering sandalwood reduces mental stress and creates a peaceful atmosphere in the house. When white flowers are offered to Tulsi, positive energy remains in the house, and misfortune is averted.
Recite Vishnu Sahasranama Near Tulsi
On the day of Devshayani Ekadashi, reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama (thousand names of Vishnu) while sitting near Tulsi brings special merit. This recitation provides inner peace and creates a religious atmosphere in the house.
The effect of reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama is even greater when done in the presence of Tulsi Mata. Those whose horoscopes have planetary defects or are facing financial problems should definitely do this remedy.
Avoid Offering Water to Tulsi
One important thing to keep in mind on this day is that water is not offered to Tulsi on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi. According to religious belief, on this day, Tulsi herself observes a fast and remains absorbed in the service of Lord Vishnu. Therefore, offering water to Tulsi is prohibited on this day.
