Chaturmasya: Embracing the physical and spiritual benefits of ancient tradition
Chaturmasya / Chaturmasa practice is an ancient tradition with profound significance for our modern lives. It is a period of profound spiritual observance mentioned in revered scriptures such as the Skanda Purana, Varaha Purana, Padma Purana, Mahabharata and others. This practice is shared across Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Chaturmasa holds excessive importance in Hinduism and Jainism. In Jainism, Chaturmasa is known as Varshayog. During this period, Jain monks and ascetics stayed in one place to engage in spiritual practices and discourses. Followers of Jainism observe Prayusan during this period. In Buddhism, the observance is called Vassa or Varsha, an annual retreat during the three months of Chaturmasa when monks and practitioners focus on deepening their spiritual practice. Not restricted to monks and ascetics, other people practising Jains or Buddhists follow the practices of Chaturmasa.
Chaturmasa is derived from the Sanskrit words "Chatur," meaning four, and "Masya," meaning months. Chaturmasa / Chaturmasya practices are observed for four holy months, beginning with Deva Sayani Ekadashi in the Ashada month (June–July) and concluding with Uthana or Prabodhini Ekadashi in the Kartik month (October–November).
According to a legend, these are the four months when Lord Vishnu undergoes yoga nidra, deep meditative sleep on his serpent, sheesha or Ananta sheesha, in the Kshirsagar, the milky ocean deep in Patal Lok.
The story goes that Mahabali, the demon King, performed Vishwajeet yagna under the supervision of his guru, Shukracharya and emerged powerful. After this yagna, he defeated Indra Dev, and Mahabali took control of the world.
His loss of position threatened Lord Indra, and he, along with all the Gods, pleaded with lord Vishnu to help. Lord Vishnu incarnated as Vamana to end the rule of King Bali and restore the supremacy of Indra, the King of Gods.
Vamana ( short height or dwarf ) Brahman appeared at King Bali's yagna (sacrificial ritual) and requested the generous Mahabali for three steps of land. After Bali granted this seemingly modest request, Vamana expanded to a colossal size, covering the entire earth in two steps. Realizing that Vamana was Lord Vishnu, King Bali offered his head for the third step. Pleased by Bali's devotion, Vishnu granted him a boon: Bali requested that Vishnu stay with him in Patal Lok. Though Vishnu agreed, Goddess Lakshmi later secured a promise that Vishnu would visit Bali only for a certain period each year. Thus, it is believed that during Chaturmasya, while Vishnu is in yoga nidra on his Shesha or Ananta sheesha, in the patal lok, he is also fulfilling his promise of visiting Mahabali every year in patal lok or netherworld.
Chaturmasa is considered a yajna, or sacrificial ritual, in Sanatan Dharma and is categorized as a type of Nitya karma. In the Teeratha Yatra Parva of Mahabharata, Pandavas practised the Chaturmasa yajna during their pilgrimage. They observed the strict practices of Chaturmasya at the sacred peak of Brahmasara according to the rights and ordinances of the great sacrifice called Rishi yagna.
Chaturmasa coincides with the monsoon season. This is a regenerative time for nature and ecology, so the practices followed by ancient saints of staying in one place during Chaturmasa and following a very basic diet was reflective of their concern towards nature's rejuvenation. This period is perfect for replenishing our spiritual and physical energy, as even nature is in the regenerative phase.
During Chaturmasa, it is suggested that practitioners step back from worldly affairs, both physically and mentally, to renew their spiritual and divine energies. This renewal can be achieved through practising a controlled life and embracing solitude. Munis and Rishis, who adhere to strict vows, subsist on a sattvic diet of fruits and water during this period. This simple diet gives rest to the body's five elements (pancha bhutas) and the mind's five senses (Pancha indriyas), serving as internal cleansing.
In our fast-paced world of instant gratification, the practice of Chaturmasa helps minimize sensory indulgence. It is a time to enhance our spiritual and emotional intelligence by embarking on an inner journey by curbing excessive stimulus to sense organs. In the current age of Kali Yuga, focusing on abstinence, charity, fasting and spiritual practices during Chaturmasya is more relevant than ever.
