Chaturmas is made up of words ‘Chatuah’ (Char) and ‘Mass’ (month) of Sanskrit, which reflects a distinctive four -month period in the Indian subcontinent. This is the time when nature is at its peak, the earth is satisfied with rain and a special energy is transmitted in the atmosphere.
In Hinduism, it is considered a sacred period of spiritual practice, restraint and self -consciousness. This Chaturmas, which runs from Ashada Shukla Ekadashi (Devshayani Ekadashi) to Kartik Shukla Ekadashi (Devotthan Ekadashi), has not only religious but also scientific and social importance, which still makes it relevant today.
Religious and mythological importance of Chaturmas: According to Hindu beliefs, on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu moves to Yoganidra for four months in Kshirsagar. During this time Lord Shiva conducts the universe. This period is considered taboo for auspicious works, such as marriage, home entry, etc., because it is not considered appropriate to do Manglik work during the sleep of God.
During this time, especially penance, fasting, worship and religious rituals are emphasized. Sadhus and saints do Chaturmas at one place during this period, also called ‘Varshawas’ or ‘Chaumasa’, and gives knowledge of religion to their devotees. It is a time of control over itself, worship the senses and spiritual progress.
Chaturmas also have special significance in Jainism, where it is celebrated as ‘Paryushan Parva’. Jain monks and sadhvis stop doing the vihara during this period and stop at one place and do meditation, so that the micro -organisms that arise in the rainy season do not harm. It is the greatness of non -violence, self -purification and penance. Buddhism has also been a tradition of ‘rainfall’ since the time of Buddha, where monks abandon and study and study in one place.
Scientific and environmental relevance: The concept of Chaturmas is not only religious, but also a deep scientific and environmental argument behind it:
Weather and Health: Chaturmas is mainly monsoon time. During this time moisture in the atmosphere increases, causing various types of microorganisms, bacteria and viruses to grow. This period is more favorable for the spread of diseases. During this time, it is beneficial for health to take restraint, light and digestible food, and take special care of cleanliness. Avoiding the consumption of religious rules such as onion, garlic, brinjal, etc., actually helps to maintain immunity during this period.
Environmental protection: In the rainy season, new life is communicated on Earth. During this time many small animals, insects and vegetation arise. The rule of saints and saints not traveling during the rainy season indirectly gives the message of protecting these organisms from crushing and preserving the environment. It is a part of the Indian tradition of harmonizing with nature.
Body purification: Fasting and fasting during this period leads to detoxification of the body. It relaxes the digestive system and purifies the body from inside. It is a type of natural medicine method that has been going on for centuries.
Social and Personal Relevance: Even in today’s modern era, the relevance of Chaturmas has not decreased, but has increased in many ways:
Self-determination and self-improvement: In a run -of -the -mill life, we do not get a chance to stop and peek within us. Chaturmas offers an ideal time for self-consciousness and self-improvement. This gives us an opportunity to focus on our habits, thoughts and behavior.
Abstinence and discipline: This period teaches us to control the senses. Fasting, sattvic food and staying away from unnecessary enjoyment inspires us to live a disciplined life. This increases mental firmness.
Family and Community Bonding: Religious events and fasting during Chaturmas bring members and community members of the family together. People worship together, listen to stories and spend time with each other, which increases social harmony.
Connection to nature: It brings us closer to nature. By experiencing rain drops, greenery and freshness in the environment, we become more sensitive to the environment around us.
Digital detox: In modern life, we are surrounded by digital devices round the clock. By following some rules in Chaturmas, we can do a type of digital detox, which increases mental peace and concentration.
Chaturmas is not just a religious ritual or a period of four months. It is a symbol of deep understanding, scientific approach and environmental consciousness of Indian culture. It teaches us how we can live a healthy and meaningful life by making harmony with nature, disciplined ourselves and moving towards spirituality.
In today’s stressful and materialistic era, Chaturmas gives us a precious opportunity to connect with our roots, find spiritual peace and understand the true meaning of life. It is a vibrant festival of spiritual purification and harmony with nature, whose relevance is intact even after centuries.
