Like every year, the Putrada Ekadashi fast, which falls in the month of Sawan, is once again a topic of discussion among devotees. Many people are wondering whether this fast will be observed on August 4th or August 5th. According to the Panchang, the Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 11:41 AM on August 4, 2025, and will end at 1:12 PM on August 5, 2025.
According to religious beliefs and the tradition of observing fasts, the Udaya Tithi, i.e., the date prevailing at sunrise, is considered valid. Therefore, the Putrada Ekadashi fast will be observed on Tuesday, August 5th, this year.
Putrada Ekadashi Occurs Twice a Year
According to the Hindu calendar, the Putrada Ekadashi fast occurs twice a year. The first time, this fast falls on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Shravan, which is known as Shravan Putrada Ekadashi. The second time, this fast falls on the Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Paush, which is known as Paush Putrada Ekadashi.
The purpose of both Ekadashi fasts is to wish for the attainment of children. Couples who have not been blessed with the happiness of having children observe this fast with faith.
The Puranic Significance of Putrada Ekadashi
According to a mythological story associated with Putrada Ekadashi, King Mahajit of the city of Mahishmati in the Dwapar Yuga did not have children. He consulted his royal priest regarding this concern. The royal priest advised him to observe the Putrada Ekadashi fast.
The king observed this Ekadashi fast according to the prescribed rituals, and after some time, he was blessed with a child. Since then, this Ekadashi is considered particularly important for the attainment of children.
Who Should Observe This Fast?
The Putrada Ekadashi fast is especially for couples who are deprived of the happiness of having children. On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshiped and the fast is observed with complete rituals.
Devotees also observe this fast for the prosperity of their families, the long life of their children, and good health. It is believed that whoever observes this fast with faith, all their wishes are fulfilled.
Easy Method of Worship
- On the day of Putrada Ekadashi, one should wake up in the Brahma Muhurta (early morning), take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
- After this, clean the temple of the house well and purify it by sprinkling Ganga water.
- Then, place the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu on a pedestal covered with yellow or red cloth.
- Bathe the Lord with Panchamrit and Ganga water.
- Offer him yellow sandalwood, yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, and garlands.
- Light a lamp and offer fruits, sweets, Panchmeva (a mixture of five dry fruits), and especially Tulsi leaves to the Lord.
- Recite Vishnu Chalisa and then perform Aarti.
Observe a fast throughout the day and worship Lord Vishnu again in the evening. It is also considered meritorious to recite Vishnu Sahasranama at night.
Rules of the Fast
Those who observe the Putrada Ekadashi fast remain on water, fruits, and special fasting food throughout the day. Rice and grains are not consumed on this day.
Many devotees observe a Nirjala fast, meaning they do not eat or drink anything throughout the day. Some people consume fruits, milk, and dry fruits.
The fast is broken on the next day, i.e., Dwadashi. It is considered auspicious to feed Brahmins and give donations at the time of breaking the fast (Parana).
Why is Lord Vishnu Considered the Lord of this Fast?
The Ekadashi fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. According to the scriptures, Lord Vishnu is said to be the preserver of the universe, and happiness and peace come into life only through his blessings.
Worshiping Lord Vishnu, fasting, and making wishes on the day of Putrada Ekadashi are fruitful for the attainment of children. It is also said that the fast performed on this day gives a hundredfold reward and the devotee is also freed from sins.
Astrological Significance is also Special for those Observing the Fast
According to astrologers, the time of the month of Shravan is considered very auspicious anyway, as it is the month of Shiva worship.
In such a situation, if a fast is observed on the Ekadashi of this month, its effect is even more auspicious. Many pundits and priests believe that observing the Putrada Ekadashi fast can also calm the defects related to children in the horoscope.
Deep Faith in this Fast in Rural Areas
Special faith in Putrada Ekadashi is seen in many rural parts of India. Especially women wait for this day throughout the year.
In many places, women gather in groups to listen to the story and sing hymns and devotional songs. This day is also considered very virtuous socially.
This Fast is Celebrated all over India
Putrada Ekadashi is celebrated with great fanfare in North India, especially in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. At the same time, in South India too, this fast holds a special place among devotees associated with Vishnu devotion.
On this Ekadashi, special decorations are done in the temples and a huge crowd of devotees gathers.