Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is one of the most important and auspicious days observed by Hindus. It is related to Lord Vishnu and is uniquely placed among the Ekadashis, as it is believed to confer progeny-related blessings. Let us delve into its date, day, timing, significance, and rituals in detail.
Date, Day and Timings
- Date: Sunday, January 5, 2025
- Ekadashi Tithi Start Time: 7:33 PM on January 4, 2025
- Ekadashi Tithi End Time: 4:39 PM on January 5, 2025
- Parana Time (Breaking the Fast):
- January 6, 2025, from 7:11 AM to 9:25 AM
Note: Parana (breaking the fast) should be done after sunrise on the next day of Ekadashi, only during the Dwadashi Tithi.
Why is Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Celebrated?
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is mainly observed by married couples, especially those who desire progeny. The word Putrada means “giver of sons,” and the vrat is believed to fulfill the desire of having a virtuous child. Observing this vrat with devotion and adherence brings happiness, prosperity, and family growth.
The importance of this Ekadashi is rooted in the belief that it absolves past sins and grants spiritual and material prosperity. It is said that performing the vrat with full faith pleases Lord Vishnu, who ensures that whatever the devotee wishes will be granted.
Main Deity of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
The presiding deity of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is Lord Vishnu, the preserver and protector of the universe. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu in His Chaturbhuja (four-armed) form, holding a conch, disc, mace, and lotus. Reciting or listening to Vishnu-related scriptures like the Vishnu Sahasranama is an integral part of the vrat.
Legend Behind Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
The story of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is narrated by the Bhavishya Purana. Long ago, in the kingdom of Bhadravati, there lived a king named Suketuman who was religious and just. He and his wife were utterly depressed and unhappy because of their childlessness, despite being wealthy and powerful. The miserable king fled to the forest, where he encountered sages observing the Pausha Putrada Ekadashi vrat. They advised him also to perform this vrat with faith.
The king followed their advice and was blessed with a virtuous son who became a wise and noble ruler. Since then, this Ekadashi has been regarded as a powerful means to overcome childlessness and receive divine blessings for a prosperous family lineage.
Rituals and Observances
- Fasting: People keep a strict fast by abstaining from food without even a glass of water or eating only fruits along with water. Some opt for a partial fast and abstain from food grains, cereals, and salt. 2. Lord Vishnu Worship: The early morning bathing and then donning new, washed clothes by the devotee,.
A sacred Kalash, containing holy water, is placed, and the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu is worshipped with flowers, incense, and lamps. Special prayers and Vishnu mantras like “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” are chanted. Devotees read the Bhagavad Gita or Vishnu Sahasranama during the day. - Charity and Donations: Distributing food, clothes, and other essential items to Brahmins and the needy is considered highly auspicious.
- Night Vigil: Many devotees keep vigil all night, singing bhajans and hymns in praise of Lord Vishnu.
- Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken on Dwadashi after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and feeding the poor.
Significance of Observing the Vrat
Past life sins are washed away, and spiritual upliftment is brought about. Blessings of a virtuous child and strong family bonds are bestowed upon the performer. Prosperity, peace, and success in personal and spiritual life are ensured. The devotee gets liberation (moksha) by appeasing Lord Vishnu.
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi is one of the most significant days for spiritual pursuits, and it is very special for those who are yearning to be parents. The observance of this vrat with devotion and faith in Lord Vishnu brings progeny and a harmonious family life. This is not a ritual but an earnest prayer for well-being and divine grace.
May Lord Vishnu bless all devotees with joy, prosperity, and fulfillment of desires on this sacred occasion of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi!
