Pausha Putrada Ekadashi 2026

The Sacred Ekadashi for Progeny and Family Blessings

📅 Wednesday, January 29, 2026

Ekadashi Tithi Begins
05:55 AM
Ekadashi Tithi Ends
07:30 AM (Next Day)
Hindu Month
Pausha
Paksha
Shukla (Bright)

About Pausha Putrada Ekadashi

Pausha Putrada Ekadashi, also known simply as Putrada Ekadashi, falls in the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Hindu month of Pausha (January-February). The word "Putrada" literally means "giver of sons" or "bestower of progeny," making this Ekadashi particularly significant for couples desiring children.

This sacred observance is one of two Putrada Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar—the other being Shravana Putrada Ekadashi in August. Both are dedicated to seeking blessings for offspring and family prosperity.

Spiritual Significance

According to Hindu scriptures, observing Pausha Putrada Ekadashi with sincere devotion:

  • Blesses devotees with worthy, virtuous children
  • Brings harmony and prosperity to the family
  • Removes obstacles in conception for couples
  • Accumulates tremendous spiritual merit (punya)
  • Pleases Lord Vishnu and grants His divine protection

📖 The Sacred Story of Putrada Ekadashi

In the Bhavishya Purana, Lord Krishna narrates the glorious story of King Suketuman of Bhadravati to Yudhishthira. The king and his queen Shaibya were childless despite ruling a prosperous kingdom for many years. Distressed about having no heir, the king sought the advice of the sage Lomasha.

The sage advised the royal couple to observe Putrada Ekadashi with complete devotion. Following the sage's instructions precisely, both the king and queen kept the fast, worshipped Lord Vishnu throughout the night, and performed charity. Within a year, Queen Shaibya gave birth to a beautiful prince who grew up to be a righteous and powerful ruler.

How to Observe Pausha Putrada Ekadashi

Preparation (Dashami - Day Before)

  • Take only one meal on Dashami (10th day)
  • Avoid onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food
  • Sleep on the floor or a simple mat
  • Maintain mental purity and positive thoughts

Ekadashi Day Rituals

  • Wake up during Brahma Muhurta (before sunrise)
  • Take a holy bath and wear clean clothes
  • Set up Lord Vishnu's idol or image with flowers and Tulsi leaves
  • Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
  • Offer fruits, Tulsi, flowers, and incense to the Lord
  • Maintain complete fast or consume only fruits and milk (depending on health)
  • Stay awake through the night (Jagaran) if possible
  • Read or listen to Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha

Parana (Breaking the Fast)

Break your fast on Dwadashi (12th day) within the prescribed time after sunrise. First offer food to Lord Vishnu, then distribute prasad to family and the needy before eating yourself.

Foods Allowed During Ekadashi Fast

  • Fruits: All fresh fruits, especially bananas, apples, pomegranates
  • Dry Fruits: Almonds, cashews, raisins, dates
  • Dairy: Milk, curd, paneer (cottage cheese)
  • Special Items: Sabudana (tapioca), kuttu (buckwheat), singhara atta
  • Vegetables: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin (avoid regular grains)

Foods to Avoid: Rice, wheat, lentils, beans, regular salt, onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian items.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Pausha Putrada Ekadashi 2026?

Pausha Putrada Ekadashi 2026 falls on Wednesday, January 29, 2026. The Ekadashi tithi begins at 05:55 AM and ends at 07:30 AM the next day.

Can unmarried people observe this Ekadashi?

Yes! While Putrada Ekadashi is especially recommended for couples desiring children, anyone can observe it to receive Lord Vishnu's blessings, family harmony, and spiritual merit.

Is water allowed during the fast?

Yes, water is allowed during Putrada Ekadashi. Only Nirjala Ekadashi (in June) requires abstaining from water. You may also consume fruits and milk.

What if I cannot fast completely?

If health doesn't permit complete fasting, you may observe a partial fast with fruits, milk, and permitted foods. The devotion and intention matter most to Lord Vishnu.

Mantras for Pausha Putrada Ekadashi

Chant these sacred mantras during your worship:

  • Vishnu Mantra: ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय (Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya)
  • Ekadashi Mantra: ॐ जय एकादशी माता, मैया जय एकादशी माता
  • Santan Gopal Mantra: ॐ श्रीं ह्रीं क्लीं ग्लौं देवकीसुत गोविन्द वासुदेव जगत्पते। देहि मे तनयं कृष्ण त्वामहं शरणं गतः॥