In Hinduism, the Ekadashi fast is considered extremely sacred and meritorious. Devotees observe a fast on the Ekadashi dates of both the Shukla and Krishna Paksha of every month. In total, there are 24 Ekadashis in a year, but some of these are considered particularly special. One such significant Ekadashi is Putrada Ekadashi. This Ekadashi holds immense importance for couples who desire to have children.
Putrada Ekadashi Occurs Twice a Year
Putrada Ekadashi occurs twice a year: first in the month of Shravan and then in the month of Paush. Both these fasts are observed for the purpose of having children. The Putrada Ekadashi of Shravan is also known as Pavitropa or Pavitra Ekadashi, while the significance of Paush Putrada Ekadashi is particularly associated with the worship of Lord Vishnu.
When is Shravan Putrada Ekadashi?
In the year 2025, the Putrada Ekadashi of Shravan month falls on August 5th. It will be a Tuesday. On this day, devotees observe a fast and worship Lord Vishnu along with Lord Shiva. The month of Sawan is generally considered special for the worship of Lord Shiva, hence the importance of this Ekadashi increases even more.
When is Paush Putrada Ekadashi?
On the other hand, the Paush month's Putrada Ekadashi will fall on December 30th in 2025. This day will also be a Tuesday. The fast of Paush Putrada Ekadashi is especially dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On this day, special prayers and worship are offered to Lord Vishnu. Devotees who observe the fast stay awake all night, chant Hari Naam Kirtan, and pray to the Lord for the happiness of having children.
Who is this Fast Especially For?
The Putrada Ekadashi fast is especially observed by married couples who desire to have children. It is believed that observing this fast with faith and adherence to the rules removes problems related to progeny and brings happiness of children. Many Puranas and religious texts mention this fast, where its glory is described in detail.
Significance Linked to a Mythological Tale
A mythological story related to Putrada Ekadashi is also quite famous. According to the story, once upon a time, a king named Suketu ruled in a city called Bhadravati. His wife, Shaivya, was very religious, but both were childless. For the sake of having children, both consulted Maharishi Lomesh and, on his advice, observed the Putrada Ekadashi fast. Due to the effect of the fast, they were blessed with a worthy and radiant child. Since then, it has become a belief that this Ekadashi fast leads to the attainment of children.
How is the Fast Observed?
On this day, one wakes up before sunrise, takes a bath, etc., and resolves to observe the fast. A lamp is lit before Lord Vishnu, and He is offered flowers, Tulsi leaves, yellow clothes, Panchamrit, etc. One fasts throughout the day, and in the evening, Prasad is distributed after the Aarti. Some people observe a Nirjala fast (without water) on this day, while some consume fruits. Night vigils and Bhajan-Kirtan are also organized.
Tulsi Holds a Special Place
Tulsi also holds special significance on Putrada Ekadashi. Lord Vishnu is extremely fond of Tulsi, and offering Tulsi leaves in any worship is considered mandatory. It is believed that Lord Vishnu does not accept worship without Tulsi. Therefore, the Tulsi plant is also worshipped on this day.
Special Worship Held at Religious Places
On the day of Putrada Ekadashi, special worship and events are held in Vishnu temples across the country. Devotees who follow the Vaishnav tradition observe the fast with great devotion on this day. Bhandaras (community kitchens) and Katha (storytelling) are also organized in some places. On this day, crowds of devotees throng holy places like Haridwar, Vrindavan, and Dwarka.
