By Saumya Bhatt, Gandhinagar: Chaturmas, a sacred period of four months in the Hindu calendar  , which begins with Devpodhi/ Devshayani Ekadashi (Ashadhi Ekadashi) and concludes with Devuthi Ekadashi (Kartik Ekadashi) will this year 2024 start from tomorrow on 17th July(Devpodhi Ekadashi) and end on 12th November with Devuthi 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.

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. The first auspicious date for ceremonies after Chaturmas will 16th November.

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.

Hindus 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. Gujarati festivals like Divaso, Janmashtami, Rakshabandhan, Kevda Trij, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Diwali, Nutan Varsh, Bhai Beej, Labh Pancham etc., fall during this time.

During Chaturmas, all Jain saints halt their journeys and follow the rules of Yama and Niyama by staying in temples, ashrams or saints’ residences. According to Jainism these four months are for fasting, meditation and penance. The most important festivals of Jainism like Paryushan and Samvatsari are celebrated during Chaturmas.

The rainy season falling in Chaturmas affects the body’s balance of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Ayurveda advises caution with certain foods and vegetables during Chaturmas due to heightened risk of contamination from active infectious germs. The reduced sunlight and monsoon conditions can lower metabolism, weaken the digestive system, and trigger lactose intolerance.

Foods to avoid to maintain overall health in these four months are:

• In Shravan: Green leafy vegetables that grow close to the ground
• In Bhadrapada and Ashwin: Dairy products like curd and fermented foods
• In Kartik: Vegetables like onion and garlic, and protein-rich pulses and lentils

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. DeshGujarat