Chaturmas 2025
A Sacred Four-Month Period of Devotion, Austerity, and Spiritual Growth
What is Chaturmas?
Chaturmas (Chaturmasya) is a sacred four-month period in the Hindu calendar, beginning from the full moon in July (Ashadha) and ending on the full moon in November (Kartik). It is a time when devotees intensify their spiritual practices, observe vows, and dedicate themselves to self-purification and service.
According to tradition, Lord Vishnu enters a state of cosmic rest (Yoga Nidra) during these months. Devotees take special vows, increase their sadhana, and avoid certain foods to please the Lord and make rapid spiritual progress.
Spiritual Significance
Chaturmas is considered highly auspicious for spiritual advancement. It is believed that any devotional activity performed during this period yields manifold results. Many saints and sages have recommended using these months for deepening one's connection with God through chanting, study, and service.
ISKCON Pandharpur encourages all devotees to take up special vows, increase their japa, attend Mangala Arati, and participate in temple programs during Chaturmas.
Recommended Vows & Practices
- Chant extra rounds of the Hare Krishna maha-mantra (18, 24, 32, 48, or 64 rounds).
- Complete your japa before 7 AM (Brahma-muhurta).
- Sleep on the floor with a simple mat for increased austerity.
- Bathe before sunrise, preferably with warm water.
- Attend Mangala Arati daily.
- Observe celibacy and maintain purity.
- Offer ghee lamps to the Lord and recite Brahma-samhita daily (sing Damodarastakam in Kartik).
- Read and contemplate Srimad Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita, and Krishna's pastimes.
- Circumambulate the temple 1-3 times during visits.
- Visit holy places or sprinkle sacred water on your head.
- Avoid unhealthy austerities; follow 'yuktahara-viharasya' (Bhagavad-gita 6.17).
Month-wise Fasts (Niyam)
| Period | Avoid |
|---|---|
| 10 July – 8 August | Green leafy vegetables |
| 9 August – 6 September | Curd (yogurt) |
| 7 September – 6 October | Milk |
| 7 October – 5 November | Urad dal (black gram) |
Food Rules
- Avoid oil; use only A2 desi ghee or wood-pressed oils.
- Eat only hot, fresh, and sattvic food.
Seva & Donation Opportunities
Support ISKCON Pandharpur's temple services and outreach by making a donation during Chaturmas. Your contribution helps maintain the temple, feed devotees, and spread Krishna consciousness.
Special recommendation: Become a Life Member of ISKCON Pandharpur this Kartik Ekadashi!
Blessings & Message
Wishing all devotees a blessed Chaturmas! May these four sacred months be a time of devotion, sadhana, austerity, and self-purification, attracting the mercy of Sri Sri Radha Pandharinath.
This is a time to look within, awaken Krishna consciousness, and dedicate oneself to the loving service of the Lord.