Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also called Prabodhini Ekadashi or Devutthana Ekadashi, falls on the eleventh day of the bright half of the Kartik month. In many parts of India, it is one of the most important Ekadashis of the year.
This article is based on religious beliefs and folk traditions. Democratic Bharat Live does not claim to verify them.
Why it is significant
According to belief, Lord Vishnu goes into a yogic sleep on Devshayani Ekadashi in Ashadha and wakes on Dev Uthani Ekadashi, four months later. This period is called Chaturmas. Auspicious ceremonies such as weddings and housewarmings are usually avoided during Chaturmas in many communities. When Vishnu wakes, the auspicious season begins again.
How it is observed
- Devotees fast and worship Lord Vishnu.
- In many homes, the floor is decorated with drawings, and sugarcane, water chestnut (singhara) and seasonal produce are offered.
- Women sing songs to “wake” the deity, often with the words “Utho Dev”.
- Lamps are lit in the evening.
Tulsi Vivah
Tulsi Vivah, the ceremonial marriage of the Tulsi plant with Lord Vishnu in the form of Shaligram or with Krishna, is performed from Dev Uthani Ekadashi to Kartik Purnima, depending on the tradition. The Tulsi plant is decorated like a bride with a red chunri and bangles, and the ritual follows the steps of a Hindu wedding. Many families see it as the start of the wedding season.
Also Read: Karwa Chauth 2026 Moonrise Time | Kartik Month Significance: Deepdaan, Holy Dips and the Festivals That Fall in This Sacred Month
The legend of Tulsi
A popular legend tells of Vrinda, a devoted wife whose devotion made her husband Jalandhar invincible. After events involving Lord Vishnu, she became the Tulsi plant, and Vishnu promised to marry her in the form of Shaligram.
Pandharpur and Vrindavan
Large gatherings take place at temples of Vishnu and Krishna, including Pandharpur in Maharashtra, where the Kartiki Ekadashi wari draws many devotees.
Date
Check your local panchang for the exact date and parana (fast breaking) time, since Ekadashi timings vary.
Bottom line
Dev Uthani Ekadashi marks the end of Chaturmas and the return of auspicious occasions, celebrated with fasting, songs and Tulsi Vivah.
Source / स्रोत: Ministry of Culture, Incredible India
