(July 10, 2022)
Chaturmasya begins from the day of Devshayani Ekadashi. During this period the Lord resides at the house of King Bali in Patala and returns after four months on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi. Kartik Shukla Ekadashi is called 'Devprabodhini Ekadashi'. Marriage etc. auspicious work is not done during this period.
Chaturmasya is a special festival of worship of God. During a period of four months, special sadhanas should be done by taking a resolution and staying at one place. Saints and sages do spiritual practice by staying at one city or place during Chaturmasya. Fasting has special significance in Chaturmasya, the person who keeps fast in these four months, his wish is definitely fulfilled. Apart from fasting, certain taboos should also be followed. Chief among these taboos are:
1. One should sleep on earth, 2. One should observe a fast of complete celibacy, 3. One should give up oil, 4. One should give up milk and curd, 5. One should not consume jaggery-honey-salt etc., 6 Vegetables should not be consumed, 7. Meat and liquor should not be consumed, 8. Non-violence should be observed, 9. Asteya should be followed, 10. Truth should always be spoken, 11. Anger should be renounced. 12. One should do the company of saints etc.