Patna: Chaturmas, a four-month period regarded as highly significant in Sanatan Dharma, will begin on July 25, 2026, coinciding with Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi. According to Hindu tradition, Lord Vishnu enters Yoganidra (divine slumber) in the Kshir Sagar on this day and awakens on Devotthan Ekadashi, which falls on November 20 this year.
The period is considered especially favourable for spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, charity and scriptural study, while several auspicious ceremonies are traditionally postponed.
Lord Vishnu’s Yoganidra and Chaturmas
According to astrologer, religious belief holds that Lord Vishnu remains in Yoganidra throughout Chaturmas. During this time, the responsibility for the administration of the universe is believed to rest with Lord Shiva and his family.
As a result, several major Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga are observed during these four months.
Auspicious Ceremonies Traditionally Deferred
During Chaturmas, Hindu traditions generally advise against conducting major auspicious ceremonies, including:
- Weddings
- Housewarming (Griha Pravesh)
- Upanayan (sacred thread ceremony)
- Mundan (tonsure ceremony)
- Other significant family rituals
Religious scholars also traditionally remain at one location during this period to conduct bhajans, kathas, spiritual discourses, chanting and penance.
Importance of Worship, Charity and Spiritual Discipline
According to the Brahmavaivarta Purana, Lord Vishnu remains in Yoganidra for four months each year. Religious texts describe this period as particularly favourable for:
- Chanting and meditation
- Penance (tapasya)
- Charitable acts
- Observance of Brahmacharya (celibacy)
- Study of sacred scriptures
- Recitation of the Shiva Purana
- Chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra
These practices are believed to carry enhanced spiritual merit during Chaturmas.
Guru Purnima and Sawan During Chaturmas
Guru Purnima will be observed on July 29, coinciding with Uttarashadha Nakshatra and Priti Yoga.
The holy month of Sawan will begin on July 30 and continue for 30 days. All four Mondays of Sawan will fall in August, when devotees are expected to perform rituals such as Rudrabhishek, Parthiva Pujan and the worship of Lord Shiva.
Wedding Dates After Chaturmas
With the conclusion of Chaturmas on November 20, auspicious dates for weddings will resume.
According to the Banarasi Panchang, there will be 16 auspicious wedding dates available across November and December. The Mithila Panchang lists 10 auspicious dates during the same period.
