Introduction
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
is a sacred fasting day observed by Vaishnavas and devoted followers of Lord Vishnu.
It falls on the Ekadashi (11th day) during the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight of the moon)
in the Hindu month of Pausha, corresponding to December–January
in the Gregorian calendar.
The
word Putrada means “giver of sons,” and therefore, this Ekadashi is
primarily observed by couples seeking blessings for a male child.
In 2027, Pausha Putrada Ekadashi falls on Monday, January 18.
In Northern India,
it is celebrated with great devotion, while in Southern states, it coincides
with Vaikuntha Ekadashi (Mukkoti Ekadashi or Swargavathil Ekadashi)—a
day when the Vaikuntha Dwaram (Gates of Heaven) are believed to open for
devotees.
Rituals & Observances
Fasting Rules
- Devotees
observe a strict fast for 24 hours, abstaining from all food and
grains.
- Those unable
to fast completely may follow a partial fast, consuming fruits and
milk.
- Cereals, rice, beans, and spices
are strictly avoided.
Worship of Lord Vishnu
- Couples
worship Lord Vishnu with devotion, offering Tulasi leaves, flowers, incense, and bhajans.
- Vishnu Sahasranamam
and Bhakti songs are recited throughout the day.
- Devotees stay
awake at night (Jagaran) singing hymns and listening to stories of
Lord Vishnu.
- Visiting Vishnu temples
and participating in special pujas and kirtans is considered highly
auspicious.
Vrat Katha & Scriptural Reference
The
greatness of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is described in the Bhavishya Purana,
where Lord Krishna explains its importance to King Yudhishthira.
It
is said that observing this Ekadashi grants virtues greater than performing 100 Raja Suya Yagyas or 1000 Ashvamedha Yagyas.
The fast purifies the soul, removes sins, and ensures happiness, prosperity, and offspring blessings.
Significance
- Blessings for Progeny:
The day is dedicated to couples praying for a male child and the well‑being of their offspring.
- Family Prosperity:
In Hindu tradition, a son performs ancestral rites (Shraddha) and
supports parents in old age.
- Spiritual Purification:
Observing the fast brings peace, virtue, and freedom from past sins.
- Divine Grace:
The vrat symbolizes faith, devotion, and gratitude toward Lord Vishnu,
the preserver of the universe.
Things to Do on Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
- Observe a full or partial fast
with sincerity.
- Avoid spicy and grain‑based foods.
- Keep Jagaran at night
with bhajans and prayers.
- Visit Vishnu temples
and participate in bhajan kirtans.
- Recite Vishnu Sahasranamam
and listen to Ekadashi Katha.
Conclusion
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
is a day of faith, family, and spiritual renewal. It reminds devotees
that sincere prayer and fasting can invoke divine blessings for progeny, peace,
and prosperity. Observing this vrat with devotion ensures not only worldly
happiness but also eternal grace from Lord Vishnu.