Putrada Ekadashi is a sacred day in the Hindu calendar, observed with great reverence by devotees of Lord Vishnu. Occurring twice a year, this holy day holds special significance for married couples seeking the blessing of a child. The Sawan Putrada Ekadashi, which falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the waxing moon phase in the month of Shravan, is particularly auspicious. In 2025, this powerful fast will be observed on August 5th. As millions prepare to observe the fast, it is important to understand the ancient story behind it, the auspicious timings for worship, and the rules to be followed for a successful and fruitful fast.

The Vrat Katha: A King's Sorrow and a Sage's Wisdom

The story of Putrada Ekadashi is found in the ancient Hindu scriptures, specifically the Bhavishya Purana. It tells the tale of King Mahajita of Mahishmati, a virtuous and just ruler who, despite all his good deeds, was deeply unhappy because he had no heir. Distressed by his childlessness, the king sought the help of his ministers, who, in turn, sought the wisdom of the great Sage Lomasha.

Through his divine meditative powers, Sage Lomasha discovered the cause of the king's sorrow. In a past life, the king had committed a sin: he had selfishly driven away a thirsty cow and its calf from a pond to quench his own thirst first. This act of cruelty, the sage explained, was the reason for his present childlessness. However, the sage also revealed that the king had observed an Ekadashi fast in that same life, which earned him the merit to be born a king in this life.

To atone for his past sin and be blessed with a son, the sage advised the king and his subjects to collectively observe the Putrada Ekadashi fast and dedicate the accumulated merit to him. The king and his people followed the sage's instructions faithfully. As a result of their sincere devotion and penance, the queen soon conceived and gave birth to a healthy and brilliant son. This is how the Ekadashi came to be known as Putrada Ekadashi, which translates to "giver of sons."

Puja Muhurat and Auspicious Timings

Observing the fast on Putrada Ekadashi requires adherence to specific auspicious timings, known as the 'Muhurat', to maximize the spiritual benefits.

• Ekadashi Tithi: Begins on August 4, 2025, and concludes on August 5, 2025.

• Puja Timings: The entire day is considered auspicious for worshipping Lord Vishnu. You can perform prayers in the morning after taking a ritual bath, and also during the evening.

• Parana Time (Breaking the Fast): The fast should be broken on the day following Ekadashi, known as Dwadashi. The ideal time to break the fast is after sunrise, during the specified Parana Muhurat.

Fasting Rules and Observance

The Putrada Ekadashi vrat is a day of spiritual discipline and devotion. Here are the key fasting rules to follow:

1. Preparation (Dashami): On the day before Ekadashi (Dashami), devotees should eat a light, sattvik meal before sunset. It is essential to avoid grains, rice, and tamasic foods like onions and garlic.

2. Ekadashi Day: On the day of the fast, devotees should wake up early, take a holy bath, and pledge to observe the fast with a pure heart. A strict fast (Nirjala Vrat), where no food or water is consumed, is considered the most meritorious. However, for those who cannot undertake such a strict fast, a partial fast with fruits, milk, and water is also permitted.

3. Prohibited Foods: Grains, pulses, rice, meat, onions, and garlic are strictly forbidden. The fast is meant to purify the body and mind, making sattvic foods the only acceptable option for those who observe a partial fast.

4. Rituals: Throughout the day, devotees should chant mantras like "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya," and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama. Staying awake throughout the night, performing bhajans, and kirtan is also considered highly meritorious.

5. Dwadashi: The fast is concluded on the following day (Dwadashi) by performing a small puja, offering food to Brahmins, and then breaking the fast during the designated Parana time. Breaking the fast with sattvik food is recommended.
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