Chaturmas 2023: Dates, Timings and Significance
In 2023, Chaturmas begins with Devshayani Ekadashi (Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi tithi) on Thursday, 29 June 2023, when Vishnu "goes to sleep," and ends with Devutthana Ekadashi (also called Prabodhini Ekadashi, Kartika Shukla Ekadashi tithi) on Wednesday, 22 November 2023, when he "awakens." Since all auspicious ceremonies require Vishnu's presence, weddings and other major celebrations are traditionally paused throughout this period.
Starts: 29 Jun (Thursday) Ends: 22 Nov (Wednesday) Duration: ~4 lunar months
Importance of Chaturmas
Why This Period Matters
Chaturmas marks the four holiest lunar months of the Hindu calendar, spanning Shravana, Bhadrapada, Ashwina and Kartik. According to tradition, Lord Vishnu withdraws into Yoganidra on Devshayani Ekadashi and the universe is left in the care of Lord Shiva until Vishnu awakens on Devutthana Ekadashi. In his absence, no ceremony that requires his blessing - most importantly weddings - is considered complete, which is why this period is treated as inauspicious for new beginnings.
This period also coincides with the monsoon season, when ancient ascetics and monks would traditionally halt their travels and remain in one place - giving Chaturmas its deeper association with introspection, study, fasting, and spiritual discipline rather than outward activity.
Chaturmas is also when several of the year's major festivals fall - Guru Purnima, Nag Panchami, Raksha Bandhan, Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, the Navratri fortnight, and Diwali all occur within this four-month window, even though the period itself is considered a time of restraint rather than celebration for personal milestones.
Do's During Chaturmas
Fasting & Dietary Discipline
Many observe partial or full fasting (Vrat), and commonly give up specific foods for the duration - a different item is often renounced each month.
Spiritual Study & Satsang
Reading scriptures such as the Bhagavata Purana or Vishnu Sahasranama, listening to discourses, and attending satsang are considered especially fruitful during this period.
Charity (Daan)
Donating food, clothes, and essentials - particularly to Brahmins and the needy - is regarded as highly meritorious throughout Chaturmas.
Japa & Meditation
Regular chanting, meditation, and simple living are encouraged as a way to turn inward during these months.
What to Avoid During Chaturmas
- Weddings, engagements, and other auspicious ceremonies
- Griha Pravesh or buying a new house
- Starting a new business or major new undertakings
- Non-vegetarian food, alcohol, onion and garlic (as per personal or family tradition)
- Excessive travel, particularly for ascetics and monks historically
- Certain vegetables during specific months, as per individual Vrat traditions (e.g. leafy greens, curd, or milk are given up in different months by different observers)
Note: observance intensity varies widely by region, sect, and family tradition - some observe strict Vrat throughout, while others mark only the start and end with special worship.