What Happens When Lord Vishnu Goes Into 'Nidra' State During Chaturmas?

It is believed that during Chaturmas, which lasts for four months, that Lord Vishnu goes into yoga-nidra (cosmic sleep) in the Kshirasagar (Ocean of Milk)

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Though Vishnu is in nidra, this is not ordinary sleep. He enters yoga-nidra, a deep meditative state where he sustains the universe in a subtle, unmanifest way. The active creation and protection aspects slow down

Most manglik (auspicious) ceremonies like marriages, housewarming, or big purchases are avoided during Chaturmas, as the presiding deity is “asleep.” This is seen as an inauspicious period for worldly undertakings

With Vishnu in nidra, other deities, especially Shiva, Devi, and Ganesh, are more actively worshipped to maintain balance and seek blessings

For sages and householders, it is a time for tapasya, vrat (fasting), and spiritual practices rather than material pursuits, because divine grace is said to be inwardly active

Just as sleep rejuvenates living beings, Vishnu’s nidra represents a cosmic pause before the next cycle of renewal. When he awakens on Devutthani Ekadashi, auspicious activities resume

Devotees observe Chaturmas Vrats such as avoiding certain foods (e.g., leafy vegetables), performing extra prayers, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, and engaging in charity, all to honor and connect with Vishnu’s subtle presence