Chaturmas 2024: Start And End Date, Rituals, Festivals And More

Chaturmasya or Chaturmas is considered a holy period of four months beginning on Shayani Ekadashi falling in June and July and concluding on Prabodhini Ekadashi i.e., October-November. The Chaturmas generally coincide with the monsoon season in India. This period is all about penance, fasting, taking a bath in holy rivers and religious observances for all. Devotees dedicate this time to observe vows, be it silence, abstaining from favourite food or just having one meal a day.

Chaturmas have a special importance in Sanatan Dharma. During these four months, it is believed that Lord Vishnu is in a sleeping position in Ksheer Sagar. Hence, worshipping him during this time is expected to bring great results.

As per Kashi’s renowned astrologer, Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay, July 17 is Ekadashi Tithi of Ashadh Shukla Paksha. On this day, Chaturmas will also begin and will last till November 12.

As per religious beliefs, organising auspicious activities like weddings, griha pravesh or other related activities come to a halt. During this time, only worship, rituals and mantra chanting will bring please the Lord.

Pandit Sanjay Upadhyay shared that during the four months of Chaturmas, doing charity and worshipping is considered important. One can donate food, clothes and other essential items to the poor and needy ones.

As per the expert, there are many benefits of worshipping Tulsi during this time. He advises people to sleep on the ground instead of in bed during this time as this pleases the Lord and removes any kind of troubles and obstacles from life.

During this time, a few major celebrations during this holy period include-

• Guru Purnima
• Krishna Janmashtami
• Raksha Bandhan
• Ganesh Chaturthi
• Navaratri (Dasahra – Durga Puja – Vijayadashami)
• Diwali
• Champa Sashthi (as per religious custom in Maharashtra, Chaturmas ends on this day).

Many Hindus, particularly those who follow the Vaishnava tradition, refrain from eating meals that are oily, salty, sweet or contain onion or garlic. Even eggplant is avoided during this time.