Chaturmas 2026: Chaturmas holds special religious and spiritual significance in Sanatan Dharma. It is believed that the *Ekadashi* (eleventh day) of the bright fortnight (*Shukla Paksha*) of the *Ashadha* month is known as Devshayani Ekadashi; this year, this auspicious day falls on Friday, July 25. Chaturmas commences on Devshayani Ekadashi, marking the beginning of the period when Lord Vishnu enters *Yoganidra* (divine slumber) in the *Kshir Sagar* (Cosmic Ocean of Milk) for four months. He remains in this state until the *Ekadashi* of the bright fortnight of the *Kartik* month—known as Devutthana Ekadashi—when Shri Hari awakens from His slumber.

During Chaturmas, auspicious activities such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies (*Griha Pravesh*), tonsure ceremonies (*Mundan*), the inauguration of new business ventures, and other celebratory events are suspended. However, a question arises: if Chaturmas begins on July 25, why do auspicious activities cease as early as July 12? Let us explore what should and should not be done during these four months.

Religious Significance of Chaturmas
According to religious belief, during Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu enters *Yoganidra*, and Lord Shiva assumes the responsibility of overseeing the universe. When Shri Hari awakens from His slumber on Devutthana Ekadashi, He resumes the task of governing the cosmos. Chaturmas is a period dedicated to self-restraint, penance (*Tapa*), chanting (*Japa*), charity (*Daan*), and devotion to the Divine. During this time, sages and saints remain in one place to deliver religious discourses, engage in spiritual gatherings (*Satsang*), and practice spiritual disciplines (*Sadhana*). Devotees also adopt a *Sattvic* (pure and simple) lifestyle and devote more time to religious rituals. It is believed that the spiritual merit (*Punya*) gained from virtuous deeds performed during Chaturmas is manifold. The four months comprising Chaturmas are *Shravan*, *Bhadrapada*, *Ashwin*, and *Kartik*. Auspicious ceremonies to pause from July 12

According to astrologers, the auspicious dates for weddings in July are the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, 11th, and 12th. However, the planet Jupiter will enter a state of 'senility' (loss of potency due to old age/weakness) starting at 11:11 AM on July 12—coinciding with the *Dwadashi* (12th day) of the *Krishna Paksha* in the *Ashadh* month. Consequently, auspicious ceremonies will be suspended after July 12. Subsequently, on July 15, Jupiter will set in the west at 7:27 PM and remain in a retrograde state until December 12. It will rise again in the east on August 9. The rising of Jupiter is essential for any auspicious or sacred activity. Following this, *Chaturmas* will begin on July 25. Thus, the final auspicious wedding date (*Sava*) of this season will conclude on July 12. Auspicious ceremonies will resume after *Dev Uthani Ekadashi*.

What to do during *Chaturmas*?
Worship Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Shiva daily.
Regularly chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya."
Recite the *Shrimad Bhagavatam*, *Bhagavad Gita*, *Ramcharitmanas*, and *Vishnu Sahasranama*.
Donate food, clothing, and alms (*dakshina*) to the poor and needy.
Observe *Ekadashi*, *Purnima* (full moon), and other major fasts with devotion.
Consume *Sattvic* (pure/wholesome) food and adopt a disciplined lifestyle.
Strive to stay away from anger, ego, and negative thoughts.

What not to do during *Chaturmas*?
Avoid weddings, engagements, housewarming ceremonies (*Griha Pravesh*), the sacred thread ceremony (*Yajnopavita*), tonsure ceremonies (*Mundan*), and other auspicious rituals.
Refrain from consuming *Tamasic* food, alcohol, and non-vegetarian meals.
Avoid lying, deceit, abusive language, and insulting others.
Do not harm plants or animals unnecessarily.
Do not disregard religious rules or show negligence regarding fasting and vows.

Why are auspicious ceremonies not held?
According to religious belief, when Lord Vishnu is in *Yoganidra* (divine slumber), He is not directly active in the auspicious tasks associated with sustaining the universe. Therefore, this period is not considered suitable for weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and other auspicious rituals. Auspicious and celebratory activities resume only upon Lord Vishnu's awakening on *Dev-Uthani Ekadashi*. According to religious scholars, *Chaturmas* is not merely a time to pause auspicious activities but a golden opportunity for self-purification, spiritual practice, and devotion to the Divine. Chanting, penance, fasting, and acts of charity performed during this period lead to spiritual growth as well as happiness, peace, and prosperity in life.

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