Shravana Putrada Ekadashi 2024: Date, Time, Significance and Rituals

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi 2024: A Devout Journey for Divine Blessings and Progeny

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi is a prominent Hindu festival observed with great reverence, particularly among couples desiring offspring. This year it will be celebrated on Friday, August 16, 2024. This auspicious day falls in the Shravana month of the Hindu lunar calendar. This festival is one of the two Putrada Ekadashis observed each year, with the other occurring during Paush month.

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi 2024: Date and Time

Putrada Ekadashi is considered highly significant in Hinduism for its association with the blessing of progeny. Observing this fast is believed to fulfill the wish of having a child, particularly a son, who plays a crucial role in performing religious rites and ensuring the continuation of the family lineage.

In Hindu tradition, sons are traditionally responsible for performing last rites and annual Shraddha rituals to honor deceased ancestors. As such, the absence of a son can be seen as a significant concern for devout Hindus. The observance of Putrada Ekadashi is particularly emphasized for those who wish to conceive a male child. It is believed that fasting on this day and performing the associated rituals can invoke Lord Vishnu’s blessings and help in achieving this goal.

Additionally, Shravana Putrada Ekadashi is also known as Pavitropana Ekadashi or Pavitra Ekadashi within the Vaishnava community, reflecting its dual significance for both progeny and purity.

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi 2024: Rituals and Observances

• Preparation and Fasting: Devotees prepare for the fast by abstaining from consuming grains, pulses, and certain vegetables. Instead, they focus on a diet of fruits, nuts, and milk.
• Worship and Prayers: On Ekadashi day, devotees perform puja (ritual worship) dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This involves reciting prayers, mantras, and the Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha, which recounts the significance of the day and its benefits. Key texts include the Vishnu Sahasranama and other Vishnu-centric prayers.
• Parana (Breaking the Fast): It is important to complete the Parana within the Dwadashi Tithi. The preferred time for breaking the fast is during Pratahkal (early morning). Breaking the fast during Madhyahna (midday) or Hari Vasara, which is the first quarter of Dwadashi, should be avoided.
• Additional Observances: In certain cases, Ekadashi fasting may be observed on two consecutive days. For regular devotees, fasting on the first day is sufficient, while Sanyasis, widows, or those seeking Moksha (liberation) might observe fasting on both days. This extended observance aligns with the spiritual pursuit of deeper devotion.