Putrada Ekadashi, also known as Pavitropana Ekadashi and Pavitra Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Shravana. This Ekadashi holds special significance for those seeking blessings for progeny and a harmonious family life.
On this day, a 24-hour fast is observed and is especially worshiped by both spouses to Lord Vishnu, who does not have a son long after their marriage. This day is especially celebrated by Vaishnavites, followers of Vishnu.
A son is considered completely important in society as he takes care of parents in their old age in life and after performing Shraddha (ancestral rites) ensures the well being of their parents in life. While each Ekadashi has a different name and is set for certain goals, the goal of having a son is so great that it is called Putrada Ekadashi.
Putrada Ekadashi is observed with great devotion and involves various rituals to seek Lord Vishnu's blessings for children, family prosperity, and overall well-being. Devotees observe a fast on this day, refraining from consuming grains, lentils, and beans. The fast is broken on the next day, Dwadashi, after performing the morning prayers and offering food to Brahmins or the needy.
On Putrada Ekadashi, devotees engage in pious activities such as performing Vishnu Puja, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama (thousand names of Lord Vishnu), reading scriptures, and listening to the glories of Lord Vishnu. Charity is also an integral part of this observance, as giving to the less fortunate is believed to bring blessings and fulfill desires.
The legend about Pavitropana Ekadashi is narrated by Lord Krishna to King Yudhishthira in a grand Purana. King Mahajit was a rich and powerful ruler of Mahishmati who had no children. He called his learned men, sages and Brahmins to find a solution to their problem and asked for a solution to get children, but no one was unable to give a solution. The king reached the omniscient saint Lomesh. Lomesh finds that Mahjit's misfortune was the result of his sins in his previous birth. The sage said that Mahajit was a businessman in his previous birth. While traveling on business, the merchant once became very thirsty and reached the pond. There a cow and his calf were drinking water. The merchant removed them and drank water himself. This sin resulted in childlessness, while his good deeds resulted in his being born as the king of a peaceful kingdom. Sage Lomesh advised the king and queen to observe Ekadashi fast in Shravan on Pavitropana Ekadashi to get rid of their sins. As advised, the royal couple as well as their citizens kept a fast and prayed to Lord Vishnu and kept vigilantly reciting His divine name throughout the night. He also gifted gold, jewels, clothes and money to the Brahmins. His wish was fulfilled when a beautiful son was born to succeed him in his kingdom.
Putrada Ekadashi is especially revered by couples longing for children. The observance is believed to remove obstacles related to childbirth and bestow blessings for healthy progeny. Additionally, this Ekadashi promotes family unity and harmony, as devotees come together to seek divine blessings and engage in religious activities.
The devout observation of Putrada Ekadashi involves not only seeking material blessings but also strengthening one's spiritual connection with Lord Vishnu. By participating in prayers, listening to spiritual discourses, and performing acts of charity, devotees experience a sense of purification and spiritual growth.
Putrada Ekadashi carries a deep spiritual and emotional significance for those aspiring to be parents and those seeking to strengthen their family bonds. It serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, selflessness, and the value of family unity in the journey of life. Through prayers, fasting, and righteous deeds, devotees seek Lord Vishnu's grace for a blessed and harmonious family life.
Putrada Ekadashi holds special significance for those seeking blessings for progeny and a harmonious family life. It is believed to remove obstacles related to childbirth and promote family unity.
Yes, anyone can observe Putrada Ekadashi, but it is particularly revered by couples longing for children and those seeking family blessings.
The fast is traditionally broken on the next day, Dwadashi, after performing morning prayers and offering food to Brahmins or the needy.
While seeking blessings for children is a significant aspect, Putrada Ekadashi also promotes family harmony and spiritual growth.
Putrada Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Shravana. Observing the Ekadashi with devotion on this day is essential. In the year 2024, Putrada Ekadashi is on Friday, 16 August 2024.
Yes, you can observe Putrada Ekadashi for overall family well-being, spiritual growth, and seeking blessings from Lord Vishnu.
While there are no specific mantras, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama or performing Vishnu Puja is common during the observance.
Absolutely, you can seek blessings for the well-being and success of your existing children as well.