The Kartik Sud Ekadashi is when the chaturmas comes to an end. This is the first Ekadashi after the Deepawali festival. The day is also referred to as the Prabodhini Ekadashi or Haribodhini Ekadashi. Prabodh means ‘to awaken’. This is the day that the Lord (Dev) is said to arise from his four-month sleep. The Kartik Ekadashi is considered the most important Ekadashi of the year.

Celebrations last for five days; ending on Purnima (full moon day). This Purnima is also called Dev Diwali. For disciples of Shree Swaminarayan Gadi, the day has an even greater significance as six great historical events occurred on this day. The importance of Dev Prabodhini Ekadasi is narrated to Sage Narada by Brahma. The divine conversation is found in the Skanda Purana. Observing this Ekadasi is believed to help get rid of the guilt associated with sins committed and is also a path to liberation (Moksha). Ekadashi is an important fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The famous Tulsi Vivah festival is performed on the day by some communities and also on the day after Ekadashi in some regions. The Chaturmas period also ends with Prabodhini Ekadashi.

All the normal rules associated with Ekadashi fasting are observed on the day. Staunch Vishnu devotees observe a rigid fast on the day by skipping food and staying awake during the night.

The majority of the people take one meal mostly in the evening and visit shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu.