Bhopal, The revered Dev Uthani Ekadashi, observed on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of the Kartik month, holds immense religious significance. This sacred day marks the end of Lord Vishnu’s four-month-long celestial sleep, or Yoga Nidra, thereby ushering in the commencement of all auspicious ceremonies, including marriages. Also known as Prabodhini or Devotthan Ekadashi, this year it falls today i.e. Saturday, November 1st.
= Temple Festivities and Rituals
The day is considered particularly holy for conducting the Tulsi Vivah (marriage of the holy basil plant to Lord Shaligram/Vishnu). Temples across the city are preparing for special decorations, bhajan-kirtan programs, and elaborate rituals. Devotees will observe a fast, offering flowers and Tulsi leaves as they worship Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi from the morning. Lighting lamps during the evening prayer is a central part of the observance.
= Diet and Divine Offerings
For the fast, devotees primarily consume items like fruits, dry fruits, milk, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and foods prepared with rock salt (sendha namak). After observing the fast and meditating on Lord Vishnu throughout the day, the falahar (fruit-based meal) is typically consumed after the evening puja. The deity is traditionally offered a bhog comprising Panchamrit, Tulsi leaves, milk, jaggery, butter, ripened fruits, and pumpkin kheer.
= Auspicious Timing and Mythology
According to Pandit Nityanand Shastri Tiwari, the auspicious time (Shubh Muhurat) for puja this year is from 6:27 PM to 8:26 PM. This window is ideal for performing the Tulsi-Shaligram marriage. The mythology states that Lord Vishnu retires for his sleep on Devshayani Ekadashi and reawakens on Dev Uthani Ekadashi. Worshipping sincerely during this muhurat is believed to eradicate all sorrows and fulfill the devotee’s desires.
