Dry day in Maharashtra tomorrow: Check alcohol sale restrictions in Mumbai, Pune and reason behind the move

The Maharashtra government has declared a dry day on Saturday, July 25, in Mumbai, Pune and many other cities in the state due to Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi. The order restricts the sale of alcohol; liquor stores, bars and restaurants serving alcohol will likely remain closed in accordance with government directives.

People planning meetings or events are advised to check local notices as restrictions may vary by location.

Alcohol sales restrictions on Devshayani Ekadashi

A dry day refers to the period when the sale of alcohol is prohibited in a particular state, city, or territory. Such restrictions are usually imposed on religious holidays, national holidays, elections or other occasions declared by the authorities.

Dry day rules vary between states and union territories, requiring residents to verify local advisories before making alcohol-related plans.

Significance and religious significance of Ashadhi Ekadashi

Devshayani Ekadashi, commonly known as Ashadhi Ekadashi, is an important festival in the Hindu religious calendar. It is celebrated on the 11th day of the bright fortnight or Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha, which falls in the months of June-July.

The festival marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s four-month period of celestial rest and is celebrated by devotees with prayers and fasting.
While Ekadashi is celebrated twice every month in the Hindu calendar, Ashadhi Ekadashi has a special religious significance. According to tradition, King Mandata sought guidance from the wise Angiras after a long drought caused difficulties in his kingdom. The sage advised him to observe an Ekadashi fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu, after which the rains are believed to return.

Pandharpur pilgrims commemorate Maharashtra’s Ashadhi Ekadashi celebrations

Ashadhi Ekadashi is celebrated during the monsoon season and is closely associated with the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur in Maharashtra. The festival is considered one of the most important spiritual events in the state.

Devotees fast and take part in grand processions while chanting hymns dedicated to Lord Vitthal. The most prominent procession starts from Alandi and ends at Pandharpur on Guru Purnima.

Pilgrims from various parts of Maharashtra and neighboring states also join the journey; many of them wear traditional clothes such as dhotis and kurtas while attending religious ceremony.