Aashadh - June to July
Shuddha Ekadashi / Ashadashi
On this day, the 11th lunar day of Ashadi, it was believed that a fair and just ruler named King Mandata, was faced with a severe drought in his kingdom. As advised by the sage Angiras, he observed Ekadashi, the fast on the 11th lunar day to please Lord Vishnu. His prayer was thereforth answered, and the kingdom was blesses with rains. After this, devotees maintain fast the whole day, and chant the name of the Lord during this time to please Him. The day after, known as Dwadashi, sprouted green gram Ambat (curry) Brahmi leaf or green mango chutney, Surnoli (sweet Indian pancake) black gram dal Appe (small Indian prasad dish) with or without jaggery are offered to the Lord before meals.
Aashadh Poornima
This festival is otherwise known as Guru Poornima or Vyasa Poornima. The festival honors Gurus (teachers as well as spiritual teachers) and spiritual guides. It is also seen as an extremely auspicious day to worship Lord Vishnu, as it is the day where the moon appears in its full, unobstructed form . A puja is done and Naivedya is offered. Aashadh Poornima is known as a day to observe the Satyanarayan fast, and to perform puja ceremonies and spiritual activities.