Another 'Putrada Ekadashi' also falls in the Shukla Paksha of the Shravana month, a different date from this one. Check a local panchang for the exact date.
Significance of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
According to legend, King Suketuman and Queen Shaibya of the city of Bhadravati were deeply sorrowful over being childless. Once, wandering in a forest, they lost their way, and, overcome with thirst and exhaustion, arrived near a lake, where they found some sages observing the vow of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi.
On the sages' advice, the king and queen also observed the vow of that Ekadashi with full rites, worshipping Lord Vishnu. By the merit of this vow, Queen Shaibya conceived, and in due time was blessed with a radiant son, who grew up to become an ideal king.
In remembrance of this legend, Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is observed by childless couples wishing for a child, and is regarded as especially meritorious and fruitful.
How Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Is Celebrated
Devotee couples bathe in the morning and take the vow, observing a fruit-based fast through the day. An image or idol of Lord Vishnu is worshipped, and the Vishnu Sahasranama along with the legend of Putrada Ekadashi is recited.
There is a tradition of bhajan-kirtan and staying awake through the night, and the next day, on Dwadashi, the fast is broken within the scripturally prescribed Parana muhurat, after feeding Brahmins and giving alms.
This vow is observed especially by couples wishing for the joy of children, and is considered highly effective for the fulfillment of this wish through Lord Vishnu's grace.
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Puja Vidhi
Bathe in the morning, take the vow, and observe a fruit-based fast through the day. Worship Lord Vishnu and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama and the legend of Putrada Ekadashi. The next day, on Dwadashi, give alms and break the fast within the scripturally prescribed Parana muhurat.
About Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is the vow observed on Pausha Shukla Ekadashi for the wish of children. This page covers the vow's significance, the legend of King Suketuman, and the vidhi for observing it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Pausha Putrada Ekadashi observed?
This vow is observed every year on Pausha Shukla Ekadashi.
How many times a year does Putrada Ekadashi occur?
There are two separate Ekadashis named 'Putrada Ekadashi', one in the Shukla Paksha of Pausha, and another in the Shukla Paksha of Shravana, both observed for the wish of children.
What is the legend of King Suketuman?
The childless King Suketuman and Queen Shaibya observed the vow of Putrada Ekadashi on the sages' advice in the forest, and by its merit, were blessed with a radiant son.
What should be done during Putrada Ekadashi Vrat?
One should observe a fruit-based fast, worship Lord Vishnu, recite the Vishnu Sahasranama and the Ekadashi legend, and break the fast the next day within the scripturally prescribed muhurat.