Shravan Putrada Ekadashi

In Sanatana Dharma, the rituals surrounding birth and death hold deep significance. Certain rituals, especially those performed by the progeny, are essential for the souls of parents to find salvation. As the children conduct the final rites, a spiritual connection is woven between generations. Following the parents’ passing, the child continues to perform regular rituals known as Shradh, ensuring the peace and satisfaction of the departed souls.

For couples facing the heartache of childlessness, life can be a trying journey. Enter Putrada Ekadashi, a sacred day observed with fasting dedicated to the pursuit of parenthood. Putra means son and Putrada means that which gives a son. Ekadashi is the eleventh day of the moon phase. This fast, observed during Shravan Putrada Ekadashi, carries immense importance for childless couples, offering them hope and a channel to express their aspirations for the joy of having children.

Join us in understanding this sacred day’s promise—a chance for new beginnings and the assurance that hope is met with divine understanding, not only for the couples who are seeking parenthood but for all the seekers. Let’s begin.

The Legend of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi

Shraddh is a significant ritual in Hinduism that involves offering homage and respect to one’s ancestors, particularly to deceased parents, grandparents, and other close relatives. It’s a way to honour the departed souls and seek their blessings, as well as to ensure their well-being in the afterlife.

Once upon a time, there was a king named Suketuman in KingdomBhadravati. He and his queen, Shaibya, were deeply saddened by their lack of children. This not only troubled them but also worried their departed ancestors, who needed someone to perform Shraddh for them. Filled with despair, the king left his kingdom and wandered into the forest, seeking solace.

After days of wandering, he reached a tranquil spot near Lake Manasarovar, where a group of sages resided. These sages, actually were the divine Vishvadevas (deities mentioned in the Vedas), recognized his turmoil and shared the sacred wisdom of Putrada Ekadashi. They advised him to observe a fast on this auspicious day to be blessed with a son. Grateful and determined, the king followed their guidance and returned to his kingdom.

After performing the rituals of Putrada Ekadashi, the couple’s prayers were answered, and they were blessed with a son. Since then, the king’s kingdom flourished with the birth of his heroic son, who grew to be a great king. The legacy of Putrada Ekadashi, a day of fasting and devotion, continued to be observed by many seeking blessings for parenthood.

Shravan Putrada Ekadashi Sadhana

The spiritual festivals in the month of Shravan are deeply important in Sanatana Dharma as they are closely linked to Lord Shiva. This special time is about connecting with the divine through practices like fasting and worship. These festivals provide a way to seek blessings, purify our thoughts, and come closer to the divine realm. It’s a time for inner growth and connecting with the sacred.

-Preparation for the Shravan Putrada Ekadashi fast begins a day before. On the evening before Ekadashi, it’s advisable to eat simple and non-spicy Sattvic food. If possible, consider practising celibacy as well.

-On the actual day of Ekadashi, start by waking up early in the morning and taking a refreshing bath. Throughout the day, maintain a fasting state.

-During the morning rituals, focus your worship on Lord Shri Narayan (Vishnu), the remover of physical, divine, and material sufferings. You can enhance your spiritual connection by chanting ‘Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay’ and reciting the Vishnu Sahastranam (the thousand names of Lord Vishnu) while meditating. If you are unable to recite, you can easily play them online.

-For couples aspiring to have a child, this day holds special significance. After your morning bath, dress in cheerful yellow attire. Illuminate your surroundings by lighting an oil lamp and a Ghee (clarified butter) lamp, paying homage to Lord Krishna. Offer basil leaves, fruits, and heartfelt prayers as a part of your worship.

-Don’t forget the Aarti ceremony, a beautiful way to conclude your morning rituals by singing praises of Lord Shri Hari. Throughout the day, continue your fast, maintaining your focus on spirituality.

-Devotees can visit Lord Shri Vishnu or Lord Shri Krishna temples to seek the divine blessings.

-As evening approaches, repeat your worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Offer them a meal, including homemade sweets, as a symbol of gratitude and devotion. With this, you can conclude your fast and enjoy a nourishing meal.

Benefits of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi Sadhana

-In the sacred month of Shravan, according to religious texts, observing the Ekadashi fast can bring remarkable benefits. This special fast not only grants material pleasures in this life but also promises heavenly rewards in the afterlife.

– Through the observance of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi, not only are a person’s sins purified, but they are also freed from the effects of planetary influences.

– The name ‘Putrada’ comes from ‘putra,’ meaning child, and ‘ada,’ meaning ‘giver.’ This Ekadashi, a giver of offspring, holds the power to grant the heart’s desires. Devotees who wholeheartedly undertake this fast find themselves showered with divine blessings, ushering unimaginable transformations into their lives.

– The benefits of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi are diverse and encompass health, wealth, sustenance, prosperity, and the protective grace of Lord Vishnu. This spiritual practice is not limited to married couples alone; people of any age or gender can participate and partake in the blessings of this auspicious day.

May Lord Shri Hari Vishnu’s benevolent presence shower blessings upon all those who embark on the sacred journey of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi. May their aspirations be fulfilled, their hearts be content, and their lives be touched by divine grace.

Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay