Utthana Ekadasi or Prabodhini Ekadashi, (also known as Dev Uthani Ekadasi and Hari Prabodhini) is enshrined during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Kartik (October – November). In 2021, the date of Utthana Ekadasi or Dev Prabodhini Ekadashi is November 15. The significance of Dev Prabodhini Ekadasi narrated to Sage Narada by Brahma. The heavenly conversation is found in the Skanda Purana. Observing this Ekadasi is believed to help in getting rid of the penitence associated with sins committed and is also a pathway to deliverance (Moksha). Ekadasi is an important fast down the line to Lord Vishnu.
This Ekadasi is known by beaucoup names including:
- Dev Prabodhini Ekadasi,
- Hari Prabodhini
- Dev Uthani Gyaras
- Dev Uthani and
- Bada Ekadashi
Importance of Utthana Ekadasi
Lord Vishnu goes into sleep on the Ashada Suddha Ekadasi (July – August). He remains in deep dozing during the period and this is known as the Chaturmasya period. He wakes up on the Kartik Shukla Ekadasi and this day is also observed as Dev Uthani Ekadasi.
Utthana Ekadasi is thus when the gods (devtas) wake up after a four-month slumber. During the four-month period, some Hindu communities steer clear of performing auspicious ceremonies. Marriages, housewarming, construction of new houses are only performed after the four-month period.
On Utthana Ekadasi day, an image of Lord Vishnu is worn on the ground. Lamps are lit around it and fruits and vegetables are offered to this fresh image. In some provinces, the image is protected with a big brass plate epitomizing that He is sleeping. Bhajans dedicated to Lord Vishnu is sung and he is asked to endow his sleep and wake up and bless people.
To wake the Lord, children light mustard torches at night and make a lot of noise.
Other Rituals on the Day
The famous Tulsi Vivah festival is performed on the day by a few communities and also on the day after Ekadasi in some regions. The Chaturmasya Vrata which began on Ashadi Ekadasi concludes on Dev Prabodhini Ekadashi day. The famous Pandharpur Yatra in Kartik month to Lord Vitthal Temple in Pandharpur is observed on the day.
Dev Uthani Ekadasi Mantra
त्वयिसुप्तेजगन्नाथ जगत् सुप्तमिंदभवेत्।।
उत्तिष्ठोतिष्ठवाराह दंष्ट वेद्वत वसुंधरे।
हिरण्याक्षप्राणघातिन्त्रैलोक्येमंगलम्कुरू।।
