Kathmandu, July 3

Devotees of the Hindu faith are observing Harishayani Ekadashi in the country today.

They also observe one of the most significant fasts on this day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, regarded as the creator of the universe.

Ekadashi or the eleventh lunar day of shukla paksha or the bright fortnight of the month of Asar is marked by rituals such as worshipping Lord Vishnu, reciting the holy scriptures relating to him and singing Lord Vishnu-oriented hymns, among others.

The Day also marks the beginning of Chaturmas, the holy period of four months from the month of Asar and Kartik in the lunar calendar when Lord Vishnu goes to sleep on the cosmic ocean of milk, Ksheer Sagar, on Sesh Naag until Hari Bodhini Ekadashi.

As the Hindu belief suggests, he wakes up to Prabodhini Ekadashi.

Nepal Calendar Determination Committee Chair Ram Chandra Gautam said basil saplings are planted on this day and worshipped ritualistically for the next four months. It is believed that by worshiping the oxygen-rich plant basil, Lord Vishnu grants his devotees their wishes.

Of the total 24 Ekadashis in the lunar calendar in a year, the Ekadashi in the month of Asar and Kartik are the most significant.