Harishayani Ekadashi, also known as Devashayani Ekadashi, is a revered day in Hindu culture dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, also called Hari. Celebrated once a year, it signifies the beginning of a four-month period when Lord Vishnu is believed to descend to the underworld (Patal) and reside at the entrance of King Bali's kingdom. According to legend, Vishnu returns above ground after these four months on Prabodhini Ekadashi, which falls in the month of Kartik.
Worshiping the sacred plant Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is a central aspect of Harishayani Ekadashi celebrations. One of Lord Krishna's everlasting consorts, Tulasi Devi, also goes by the name Tulsi, and in Hinduism, she has great sacred significance. The plant symbolizes purity and is considered dear to Lord Vishnu. Tulsi is often referred to as the "women's deity" and a symbol of wifehood and motherhood, playing a central role in household religious devotion, especially among women.
For Vaishnavites, tulsi is more than just a plant, it is a manifestation of divinity inside the plant world. It is thought that Vaikuntha, the home of Lord Vishnu, can be reached by Tulsi, also known as Vrinda. Tulsi devotees think that the herb brings them one step closer to Moksha, or freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Furthermore, it is said that having Tulsi in a home removes Vastu Dosh, protecting against negativity and evil.
In Nepal, people traditionally plant Tulsi plants in front of their homes on Harishayani Ekadashi. In traditional Ayurveda, the plant is valued for its medicinal benefits as well as its spiritual importance. It is known to release oxygen into the atmosphere and absorb carbon dioxide.
The day of Harishayani Ekadashi begins with cleaning the house and surrounding areas, sprinkling holy water, and installing a statue of Sri Hari Vishnu at the designated Pooja location. This statue, often made of gold, silver, or brass, becomes the focal point of worship. Devotees gather to listen to the Brata Katha, the story of the vow, which narrates the significance of this auspicious day.
Belief and Significance
According to legend, there once was a king called Mandhata, who was well-known for his justice and intelligence during the Satya Yuga. But for three years his territory suffered by a terrible drought, which caused his people to struggle and go hungry. King Mandhata turned to the guru and son of Brahma, Angira Rishi, for advice in his hour of need. He should worship Lord Vishnu on Ashad Shukla Ekadashi, the guru counseled. The monarch took this advice to heart and served his subjects with food from his reserves during a lavish celebration. The rains miraculously returned, sparing his country. This tale supports the notion that worshiping Lord Vishnu on Harishayani Ekadashi results in blessings and an end to difficulties.
Devotees restrict from specific foods and behaviors as part of the observance. These include staying away from sweets to improve voice quality, oil for fertility and longevity, and sesame seed oil to defeat enemies. They also abstain from eating meat, drinking honey, resting on elevated beds, and lying. After four months, these limitations are lifted, signifying the duration of Lord Vishnu's underworld exile.
Harishayani Ekadashi is a celebration of faith, community, and cultural legacy rather than just a religious holiday. People can enjoy the celebrations and re-establish a spiritual connection as it provides a much-needed respite from the usual. In the modern world as well as in the farming villages of the past, celebrations such as Harishayani Ekadashi foster happiness and a sense of community.
Photo Credit: HerZindagi, Janamanch, Housing
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