Devasayani Ekadasi, also known as Sayana Ekadashi, occurs during the shukla paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Ashada month (June – July). Devashayani Ekadasi is also known as Hari Sayan Ekadasi as it is believed that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep after this Ekadasi as it is the night of devas with the beginning of Dakshinayana. Ekadasi Fasting is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and falls on the 11th day of a lunar fortnight in traditional Hindu Calendar.
Devasayani Ekadashi is popularly known as Ashadi Ekadasi in Maharashtra and it marks the end of the Pandarpur Yatra. The Chaturmas (four Hindu holy months) and the Chaturmasa Vrata also begins in some regions on Sayana Ekadasi.
Thousands of devotees also take a holy dip in Godavari River on the day and pay obeisance to Lord Rama at Kala Ram temple.
The importance of Sayana Ekadasi was explained to Sage Narada by Lord Brahma. Lord Krishna narrated about the greatness of it to Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas. The glory of Devasayani is mentioned in the Bhavisyottara Purana.
It is believed that those who observe this Ekadashi is blessed with peace and happiness. Even hearing about it is considered highly auspicious. Interestingly, Devasayani Ekadashi is observed as a mark of pure devotion and there is not desire or fulfillment of material gains.
According to the Purans, from this day onwards Lord Vishnu takes rest in Ksheer Sagar (ocean). So, naturally all the oceans, rivers and ponds are believed to attain divinity due to the presence of Lord Vishnu in Ksheer Sagar during this period. This is one of the main reasons why great importance is given to taking holy bath during this period. A devotee who observes severe austerities and penance related with God during these four months becomes absolved of all sins and bestows indescribable virtues.
One should observe asceticism, self-discipline and avoid indulging in any sensual pleasures during this period of four months and firmly observe the vratt of Ekadashi. Ekadashi is the day of cleaning the sense organs and purifying oneself. Nothing else pleases God more than penance. Hence Ekadashi is the day of penance. Starting from this day, a devotee should take a vow from God for extra devotional practice, observe extra penance and engage oneself in continuous devotion.