Chaturmas is an ancient and revered observance in the Hindu tradition that holds significant spiritual importance. During this period, followers embark on a journey of increased religious fervor and personal reflection. This observance is not only a time for heightened spiritual activities but also serves as a profound opportunity for devotees to draw closer to Bhagwan through dedicated practices and disciplines.
Chaturmas, which translates to the "four sacred months," consists of Ashadh, Shravan, Bhadarvo (Bhadrapad), and Aso (Ashwin). It begins on Ashadh sud Ekadashi, also known as Dev Podhi Ekadashi, when Bhagwan Vishnu descends into the Kshirsagar – the ocean of milk – to guard King Bali’s kingdom for four months. This tradition originates from King Bali's immense sacrifice to Bhagwan Vishnu, allowing him three strides of land, ultimately including himself in the offering. The period concludes on Kartik sud 11 with Dev Prabodhini Ekadashi, when Bhagwan Vishnu returns to Vaikunth, marking the end of his stay in King Bali's kingdom.
During Chaturmas the shastras prescribe extra bhakti along with vrats to please Bhagwan. Bhagwan Swaminarayan also advocates this in the Shikshapatri (76, 77, 78) that 'my devotees shall observe additional bhakti rituals during Chaturmas, such as reading and listening to katha, singing bhajans, performing mantra japa, chanting stotras, doing pradakshinas, dandvat pranams, etc.'
The emphasis on fasting during Chaturmas, a practice recommended by ancient sages in bhakti shastras, aims to fortify the mind and soul by mastering the sense of taste. This is particularly relevant during India’s monsoon season, which can aggravate the three bodily humours—vata, pitta, and kapha—leading to potential illnesses (Charak Samhita, Sutrasthan 6/33). The Bhavishyottara Puran suggests that controlling the senses during these months brings one closer to divine proximity and eventual liberation (moksha).
Significant festivals during Chaturmas are marked by fasting and devotion, channeling one's sensory faculties towards divine contemplation. Devotees engage in katha and dhyan, forms of devotional rituals that encourage reflection on one's spiritual journey towards moksha.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, emphasized the importance of observing Chaturmas, especially in the month of Shravan. In his letter dated July 4, 2024, he wrote”
"Yogiji Maharaj, was very pleased when the youth engaged in austerities. Observing these austerities can increase your control over your mind and enhance your Atmanishtha. Therefore, I recommend the following vrats during the Shravan month:
1. Dharna Parna: Fast without food or water every alternate day for one month.
2. Ektana: Eat only once a day for a month.
If unable to sustain this for a month, a 15-day commitment is also beneficial. If health permits, consider performing the Chandrayan vrat, where you start with one morsel and gradually increase to fifteen before decreasing back down. I am very pleased when our youth engage in such austerities and encourage everyone to participate enthusiastically."
- Lenin Joshi
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha
