Putrada Ekadashi is one of the most revered Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar, especially for married couples and devotees of Lord Vishnu. Observed during the Shukla Paksha of the Pausha month, this sacred fasting day is believed to bless devotees with virtuous children, family prosperity, and spiritual merit.
The word Putrada literally means “giver of a son”, but in a broader spiritual sense, it signifies blessings of offspring, good values, lineage continuity, and divine grace.
What Is Putrada Ekadashi?
Putrada Ekadashi is a holy fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. It is observed primarily by:
- Married couples seeking children
- Parents praying for their children’s well-being
- Devotees seeking family harmony and spiritual growth
This Ekadashi is considered extremely auspicious and is said to remove obstacles related to progeny and family life.
When Is Putrada Ekadashi Observed?
Putrada Ekadashi falls in the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Pausha month, usually in December or January, depending on the lunar calendar.
It is different from Putrada Ekadashi of Shravana month, which is also observed in some traditions. The Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is widely celebrated in North India.
Religious Significance of Putrada Ekadashi
According to Hindu scriptures, Putrada Ekadashi holds immense religious importance because:
- It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe
- Observing this fast is believed to grant pious and obedient children
- It helps devotees earn Punya (spiritual merit)
- It is said to free ancestors from suffering
Many believe that sincere observance of Putrada Ekadashi can remove past karmic obstacles related to family lineage.
Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Sacred Story)
The Putrada Ekadashi Katha is narrated in ancient scriptures and highlights the power of devotion and fasting.
The Story of King Suketuman
Long ago, there lived a righteous king named Suketuman, who ruled the city of Bhadravati. Despite having wealth and power, he was deeply unhappy because he had no children. His queen, Shaivya, also shared his sorrow.
As time passed, the king became increasingly worried, believing that without an heir, his ancestors would not attain peace. Troubled by this fear, he decided to leave his kingdom and wander in forests.
One day, exhausted and hopeless, King Suketuman reached an ashram of sages. The sages, knowing his pain, advised him to observe Putrada Ekadashi Vrat with full devotion and faith in Lord Vishnu.
The king and queen followed the vrat sincerely—observing fast, worshipping Lord Vishnu, and staying awake at night in prayers. Pleased by their devotion, Lord Vishnu blessed them with a virtuous son.
This divine event established the belief that Putrada Ekadashi grants blessings of progeny and family happiness.
Rituals of Putrada Ekadashi Vrat
Observing Putrada Ekadashi involves spiritual discipline and purity of mind.
1. Early Morning Bath
Devotees wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath, preferably after remembering Lord Vishnu.
2. Sankalp (Vow)
A vow is taken to observe the Ekadashi fast with sincerity and devotion.
3. Worship of Lord Vishnu
- Offer flowers, tulsi leaves, fruits, and incense
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama or mantras
- Read or listen to Putrada Ekadashi Katha
4. Fasting Rules
- Some observe Nirjala Vrat (without food and water)
- Others follow Phalahar (fruits and milk only)
- Grains and rice are strictly avoided
5. Night Vigil (Jagran)
Staying awake at night singing bhajans and remembering Lord Vishnu is considered highly beneficial.
Parana (Breaking the Fast)
The fast is broken on Dwadashi Tithi, after sunrise, following proper rituals. Consuming satvik food after offering prayers completes the vrat.
Benefits of Observing Putrada Ekadashi
Devotees believe that observing Putrada Ekadashi brings:
- Blessings of healthy and virtuous children
- Family peace and harmony
- Removal of obstacles related to progeny
- Spiritual purification
- Accumulation of divine merit
It is also said that this vrat helps in overcoming grief, fear, and karmic burdens.
Spiritual Meaning Beyond Progeny
While Putrada Ekadashi is associated with childbirth, spiritually it also symbolizes:
- Creation of good thoughts
- Growth of virtues
- Continuation of dharma
In this sense, Putra represents not just a child, but righteous legacy and moral values.
Do’s and Don’ts on Putrada Ekadashi
Do’s
- Chant Lord Vishnu’s name
- Practice charity and kindness
- Maintain purity of thoughts
Don’ts
- Consume grains, rice, or lentils
- Speak harsh words
- Engage in negative actions
Why Putrada Ekadashi Is Still Relevant Today
In modern times, Putrada Ekadashi reminds us of:
- The importance of faith and patience
- Strength of prayer and discipline
- Value of family and righteous upbringing
It encourages spiritual balance in a fast-paced life.
Read this: 100+ Best Vaikunta Ekadasi Wishes in English, Quotes, and Captions
Final Thoughts
Putrada Ekadashi is not merely a fasting ritual—it is a sacred opportunity to seek divine blessings for family, children, and spiritual growth. Observing this vrat with devotion and sincerity is believed to transform lives, bring peace, and strengthen faith in Lord Vishnu.
May Lord Vishnu bless all devotees with happiness, harmony, and spiritual fulfillment on this holy Putrada Ekadashi.
🙏 Happy Putrada Ekadashi 🙏



