Today, Nepal celebrates Haribodhini Ekadashi, a revered Hindu festival marking the symbolic awakening of Lord Vishnu after four months of cosmic rest. This festival, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi, is observed with elaborate rituals, fasts, and special worship ceremonies dedicated to Vishnu and his consort, the sacred Tulsi plant. The event is especially significant as it symbolizes the marriage of Tulsi to Lord Damodar, an incarnation of Vishnu, and marks the end of the Chaturmas period.
During Chaturmas, which began with Harishayani Ekadashi four months ago, devotees plant and tend to Tulsi, praying and fasting for blessings. On Haribodhini Ekadashi, Tulsi is adorned with garlands and covered in red soil and cow dung, symbolizing purity and devotion. Vishnu’s devotees hold that worshipping Tulsi brings divine protection, with traditional beliefs saying that Tulsi’s presence keeps away malicious entities and even protects from snake bites and poisonous germs. Ayurvedic practitioners, like Dr. Banshdeep Sharma Kharel, note that Tulsi’s medicinal properties have been scientifically validated. The plant’s leaves stems, and flowers are used to treat ailments like colds and malaria, while Tulsi tea is said to strengthen immunity, a remedy gaining popularity for preventing diseases like dengue and COVID-19.
Today’s festivities are highlighted by processions, where idols of Lord Vishnu are placed on chariots, accompanied by music from conch shells, bells, and drums, awakening Vishnu. Farmers celebrate by burying sugarcane at the Tulsi shrines and feasting on seasonal fruits like forest yams and pindalu. Observing the Ekadashi fast today is considered meritorious, equated with performing grand sacrifices like the Ashwamedha and Rajasuya Yagnas.
Kathmandu Valley’s iconic Narayan temples, including Char Narayan, Changunarayan, and Bishankhunarayan, host special fairs and worship ceremonies. Visiting Budhanilkanth Narayansthan is believed to offer similar blessings for those unable to attend. The Sesha Narayan temple in Dakshinkali has been specially prepared to accommodate the thousands of pilgrims expected for this yearly event.
Theologian Prof. Dr. Devmani Bhattarai explains that worship in this auspicious month of Kattik washes away sins, bringing peace and spiritual rewards. With the end of Chaturmas, the faithful welcome the resumption of auspicious ceremonies like marriages, marking a fresh beginning as Vishnu reawakens.
