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Chaturmas 2026 Guidelines: Today, Saturday, July 25, marks the beginning of Devshayani Ekadashi. From this day forward, Lord Vishnu will enter a state of *Yog Nidra* (cosmic slumber) in *Patal Loka* (the netherworld) for a duration of four months. During this time, Lord Shiva will take over the governance of the universe, acting as both Preserver and Destroyer. Although Chaturmas spans five months—Ashadh, Sawan, Bhadrapad, Ashwin, and Kartik—the period is calculated from Ashadh Shukla Ekadashi to Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, effectively covering four months. Specific guidelines regarding diet, worship, and auspicious activities are observed during Chaturmas. Let’s delve into the dos and don'ts for this sacred period.

Chaturmas: July 25 to November 20
According to the Vedic calendar, this year's Chaturmas will last from Devshayani Ekadashi (July 25) until Devutthana Ekadashi (November 20). The conclusion of Chaturmas is marked by Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, also known as Devutthana Ekadashi, when Lord Vishnu awakens from his cosmic slumber.

What to avoid during Chaturmas?
As Lord Vishnu is in *Yog Nidra* throughout Chaturmas, no auspicious ceremonies are conducted. Activities such as weddings, *Mundan* (tonsure ceremonies), *Griha Pravesh* (housewarming), and engagements are strictly forbidden during this time.

It is advised to refrain from consuming *Tamasic* food (which induces lethargy or ignorance) during these four months. This includes avoiding garlic, onions, meat, alcohol, and stale food. In the month of Sawan, green leafy vegetables like spinach and mustard greens should not be eaten. Similarly, during Bhadrapad, curd and curd-based products are to be avoided. In Ashwin, milk should not be consumed, and during Kartik, foods such as radish, eggplant, *Urad dal* (black gram), and *Chana dal* (split chickpeas) should be excluded from the diet.

Additionally, one should not eat food prepared by others during Chaturmas. Those observing fasts and performing worship should avoid sleeping on a bed or cot. It is also essential to refrain from anger, lying, gossiping, and showing disrespect to others during this period.

What should be done during Chaturmas?
There are no restrictions on fasting, worship, celebrating festivals, chanting mantras, or practicing abstinence during Chaturmas.

You can observe all fasts and festivals—such as Ekadashi, Pradosh, Shivratri, Chaturthi, and Teej—just as you normally would. The month of Shravan (Sawan) is particularly auspicious for the worship of Lord Shiva. Engaging in *Jalabhishek* (offering water) and *Rudrabhishek* during this time can help you gain Lord Shiva's blessings and fulfill your wishes.

Worship your chosen deity (*Ishta Dev*) during Chaturmas and chant their mantras for well-being. Additionally, donating food grains, clothing, water, fruits, and other essentials during this period can earn you spiritual merit (*Punya*).