Why Follow Caturmasya?
“The real purpose behind the vow taken during these four months is to minimise the quantity of sense gratification. This is not very difficult.”
Caitanya-caritamrita, Madhya Lila 4.169, Purport
In the purport to Sri Caitanya-caritamrita, Madhya-lila 4.169, Srila Prabhupada explains that the Caturmasya period begins in the month of Ashadha (June-July) from the day of Ekadasi called Sayana-ekadasi and ends in the month of Kartika (October-November) on the Ekadasi day known as Utthana-ekadasi. This four-month period is known as Caturmasya.
The Sri Hari-bhakti-vilasa recommends specific dietary restrictions for each month of Caturmasya:
- Sravana (July–August): Avoid eating green, leafy vegetables, including spinach, coriander, curry leaves, basil, and other herbs.
- Bhadrapada (August–September): Avoid eating yogurt.
- Asvina (September–October): Avoid consuming milk.
- Kartika (October–November): Avoid eating white lentils (masura and urad dals).
In the Varaha Purana, the significance and origin of the Caturmasya period are described. Once, Mother Earth approached Lord Varaha, expressing concerns about the people of Kali Yuga, who are often afflicted with ignorance, short lives, weakness, and disease. She asked the Lord to reveal a method for these people to gain great benefits with little effort.
Lord Varaha explained that the Caturmasya period offers immense benefits to those who perform any form of austerity, such as fire sacrifices, charity, or simply chanting the holy names of the Lord. He emphasized that austerities performed during Caturmasya yield greater benefits than those observed at other times of the year.
The story continues with Lord Varaha recounting an encounter with Ratri Devi, who felt inauspicious because auspicious activities, like marriages, were not performed during her months. Moved by her plea, Lord Varaha granted her a boon, making the first two yamas (two-month periods) of her reign particularly dear to Him. He declared that pious deeds performed during these months would accrue immense merit, with the merits increasing daily, especially during the final month, Kartika.
The Sri Hari-bhakti-vilasa outlines various observances during Caturmasya that, if followed strictly, yield great merit. Examples include resting on the ground or on stone to become an associate of Lord Vishnu and refraining from speaking nonsense (prajalpa) to ensure one’s orders are never disobeyed. These simple vratas offer significant benefits, making it easier for people in Kali Yuga to obtain great merit and spiritual advancement.
In the Nectar of Devotion, it is stated that following the regulative principles of Caturmasya can quickly elevate one to the platform of devotional service. The observance is meant to increase devotion to Lord Krishna and decrease sense gratification. Any effort made for the pleasure of the Lord, regardless of its scale, is greatly appreciated and well-rewarded.
Srila Prabhupada, in a purport in the Sri Caitanya-caritamrita, explains that observing Caturmasya is obligatory for all ashramas. He emphasizes that the primary purpose is to reduce sense gratification. The basic observances of avoiding certain foods and increasing sadhana are sufficient to receive limitless mercy from the Lord. This underscores the benevolence of the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Source: https://www.mayapur.com/2024/first-month-of-caturmasya-begins/
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