Important Fasts and Festivals in July 2024: Devshayani Ekadashi, Guru Purnima, and More
This week in July is considered very special for fasting and festivals. The current week begins with the ninth day of the waxing phase of the Ashadha month, marking the end of Gupt Navratri. This week, along with Gupt Navratri, includes Devshayani Ekadashi, Guru Pradosh Vrat, Chaumasi Chaudas, Guru Purnima, and other important fasts and festivals. Additionally, this week will see the sun transition into Cancer and Mercury into Leo. Let’s look at the key fasts and festivals of this week in July.
15th July, Monday: End of Gupt Navratri
According to the Hindu calendar, there are four Navratris, with Gupt Navratri falling in the Shukla Paksha of Ashadha. Those observing the Gupt Navratri fast or performing sadhana should conclude it on the ninth day with havan and other rituals. Gupt Navratri involves worship and sadhana of the ten Mahavidyas of Goddess Durga. During these nine days, tantric practices and achievements are sought. While the main deity of regular Navratri is Goddess Parvati, Gupt Navratri’s main deity is Goddess Kali.
17th July 2024, Wednesday: Devshayani Ekadashi
The Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha in Ashadha month is known as Devshayani Ekadashi. The period from Ashadha to Kartik Ekadashi is called Chaturmas, during which Lord Vishnu is believed to rest on Ananta Shesha in the Kshira Sagara (ocean of milk). Hence, all auspicious activities, including marriages, are paused. Ascetics stay in one place during these four months for their rituals. Observing a fast on this day and worshipping Lord Vishnu while reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama destroys all sins and grants moksha (liberation).
18th July, Thursday: Guru Pradosh Vrat
The Pradosh Vrat is observed on the Pradosh Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in Ashadha month. As this Pradosh falls on a Thursday, it is called Guru Pradosh Vrat. By fasting and worshipping Lord Shiva on this day, one can achieve victory over enemies. This vrat is considered highly auspicious and believed to bring Lord Shiva’s blessings. Worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the Pradosh period removes all hardships and brings prosperity and happiness.
20th July, Saturday: Chaumasi Chaudas
On this day, the fast of the full moon in the Shukla Paksha of Ashadha month is observed. This day also marks Chaumasi Chaudas, which holds significant importance in Jainism. Followers of Jainism refer to the Chaumasi festival as Varsha Vaas, which begins on Ashadha Purnima and lasts until Kartik Purnima. During this period, Jain monks cease their travels and stay in temples, ashrams, or saints’ residences, strictly adhering to their vows. According to Jainism, these four months are for fasting, meditation, and penance.
21st July, Sunday: Guru Purnima
Guru Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day of the Shukla Paksha in Ashadha month, according to the Hindu calendar. The full moon tithi starts on 20th July at 5:59 PM and ends on 21st July at 3:46 PM. Worshipping Guru Vyasa on this day is considered highly significant. Anyone who worships their Guru Vyasa on this day attains knowledge. This day symbolizes the sacred relationship between Guru and disciple.
