Dev Uthani Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi, is a major festival in the Hindu calendar that marks the end of Lord Vishnu’s four-month cosmic sleep (Chaturmas) and the beginning of auspicious activities like marriages and other ceremonies in India.
When is Dev Uthani Ekadashi in 2025?
Dev Uthani Ekadashi will be observed on Saturday, 1 November 2025 (Kartik Shukla Paksha Ekadashi). The fast traditionally begins on November 1 at 9:11 AM and ends on November 2 at 7:31 AM. Fasting is broken (Parana) between 1:11 PM and 3:23 PM on November 2.
Significance of Dev Uthani Ekadashi
This sacred day symbolizes Lord Vishnu’s awakening, after which it is considered highly auspicious to resume or begin rituals such as weddings, house-warmings, and engagements that are paused during Chaturmas. The festival is also notable for the celebration of Tulsi Vivah, wherein the holy basil plant is ritually married to Lord Vishnu (in the form of the Shaligram stone).
Rituals Observed on This Day
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Devotees take a holy bath, wear clean clothes, and set a vow (sankalp) to maintain a fast.
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Lord Vishnu is worshipped with yellow flowers, tulsi leaves, and lamps. Homes and temples are decorated with lights and garlands.
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Special prayers and mantras, including Vishnu Sahasranama, are chanted.
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Many keep an overnight vigil, singing bhajans and hymns.
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Tulsi Vivah ceremony is performed in many places.
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Acts of kindness and charity, such as distributing food to the needy, are encouraged.
Benefits of Observing Dev Uthani Ekadashi
Fasting and prayers on Dev Uthani Ekadashi are believed to:
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Remove past sins and grant spiritual purification.
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Bring prosperity, good health, and happiness.
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Break the cycle of birth and death, helping devotees attain Moksha (liberation).
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Fulfill desires and bring harmony in relationships.
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Grant wishes and ensure overall well-being by the grace of Lord Vishnu.
Why is Dev Uthani Ekadashi Celebrated?
According to Hindu tradition, Lord Vishnu goes into yogic sleep during Devshayani Ekadashi (June-July) and awakens on Dev Uthani Ekadashi. The period in-between is considered inauspicious for major life events. With Dev Uthani Ekadashi, the environment returns to celebration, devotion, and prosperity throughout India.
