The Ekadashi that marks the beginning of Chaturmas holds immense significance. According to astrological calculations, a total of 24 Ekadashis occur within a year for the welfare of humanity. While every Ekadashi has its own importance, the Ekadashi falling during the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Ashadha month is a particularly special date. According to the Hindu almanac (Panchang), all auspicious activities are completely suspended from this day until the Ekadashi of the bright fortnight of the Kartik month. Chaturmas begins in the month of Ashadha and extends through the months of Shravana, Bhadrapada, and Ashvina, concluding on the full moon day (Purnima) of Ashvina. Auspicious activities resume on the Ekadashi of the bright fortnight of Kartik.

**Lord Shiva Governs the Universe**
During the four months of Chaturmas—starting from the month of Ashadha and continuing until the Ekadashi of the bright fortnight of Kartik—Lord Shiva oversees the functioning of the entire universe. Pandit Shridhar Shastri of Haridwar explains that auspicious activities cease as soon as the month of Ashadha begins. The Ekadashi of the bright fortnight of Ashadha marks the arrival of 'Devshayani' (the day the deities go to sleep), an event of great significance. Worshipping Lord Vishnu and reciting the 'Sahasranama' (the thousand names of the Lord) on this day is considered highly beneficial.

**Spiritual Consequences (Dosha) if Remedies are Ignored**
Pandit Shridhar Shastri explains that, according to astrological calculations, on 'Devshayani' (also known as 'Harishayani') Ekadashi—falling in the bright fortnight of Ashadha—Lord Vishnu retires to the 'Kshir Sagar' (Cosmic Ocean of Milk) with Goddess Lakshmi to rest. All the deities also enter a state of slumber. During this period, the almanac lists no auspicious timings (*muhurta*) for ceremonies or auspicious events. According to astrology, after resting for four months, Lord Vishnu and all the deities return on 'Devutthana' (or 'Hari Prabodhini') Ekadashi, which falls in the bright fortnight of Kartik. Auspicious activities resume from this very day.

Throughout this interim period, it is Lord Shiva who governs the entire universe. From Devshayani Ekadashi to Devuthani Ekadashi, all auspicious activities—such as weddings (marriage ceremonies), tonsure ceremonies, housewarming rituals, foundation-laying ceremonies, purchasing vehicles, and major religious rituals—are prohibited. Performing these activities during this period incurs a spiritual blemish that cannot be remedied even through corrective measures.

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