Chaturmas is a sacred period of four months in the Hindu calendar. It begins with Devpodhi/ Devshayani Ekadashi (Ashadhi Ekadashi) and concludes with Devuthi Ekadashi (Kartik Ekadashi). The months included in Chaturmas are Shravan, Bhadrapad, Ashwin, and Kartik. According to the beliefs, God Vishnu goes into a deep meditative sleep called Yog Nidra during Chaturmas. He wakes up after four months, marking the end of Chaturmas.

In 2024, Chaturmas begins on 17th July with Devpodhi Ekadashi and ends on 12th November with Devuthi Ekadashi. The first auspicious date for ceremonies after Chaturmas is 16th November.

People do not conduct any auspicious events such as marriages, engagements, Janeu, Mundan, Grih Pravesh, naming ceremonies, or purchasing valuable items during Chaturmas. This is because Lord Vishnu is believed to be in Yog Nidra, and it is considered inauspicious to perform life events during this period.

However, performing pooja and prayers during this time is considered auspicious. Devotees believe that worshipping the gods and goddesses for these four months will fulfill their wishes and bring peace and happiness to their homes.

Devotees observe various rituals during these 4 months. They abstain from certain foods, maintain periods of silence (Maun vrat), and engage in acts of charity. Daily prayers, fasting, chanting of mantras, and participating in religious processions are common practices. Many devotees also undertake pilgrimages to holy places associated with God Vishnu. Devotees also do Bhagavat Pujan, read Shiv Puran, chant Maha Mrityunjaya, and do charity work.

The rainy season during this period affects the body’s balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha as per Ayurveda. Foods to avoid to maintain overall health in these four months are:

• In Shravan: Leafy vegetables and brinjal.
• In Bhadrapada and Ashwin: Dairy products like curd and fermented foods.
• In Kartik: Vegetables like onion and garlic, and protein-rich pulses like Urad dal and Masoor dal.

Devotees consume fresh seasonal fruits and Sattvik foods, which are simple and minimally spiced. Devotees also avoid eating tamasik food like onion and garlic during these four months. They practice Yoga Asanas, meditation, and Pranayam alongside dietary restrictions to boost the immune system.These practices help in disciplining the mind and body, promoting overall health and well-being.

Overall, this period helps devotees to embrace spiritual discipline, dietary restraint, and inner reflection. By adhering to these practices, individuals not only honor tradition but also nurture their physical health and spiritual growth. DeshGujarat