Putrada Ekadashi

Putrada (Putradā) is the ekadashi of shukla paksha in the fifth lunar month, Shravana (July-August). The name comes from the Sanskrit "putra-dā" — "the bestower of sons." Tradition connects it with special grace for childless couples: the fast on this day, by legend, brings a long-awaited child.

Place in the system

Ekadashi is the eleventh tithi of the lunar month. Putrada falls eleventh in the bright half of Shravana, in the height of the monsoon, a month after the start of Chaturmasya.

The connection with "bestowing sons" runs deep here: in the Hindu tradition the birth of a child (especially a son) is held one of the most important blessings, and the Putrada ekadashi is a special time for this prayer. It is not a "magical" fast but a moment of sincere prayer in a period when the blessing is especially favorable.

Putrada occurs twice in the year: this one, in Shravana, and a second — on shukla paksha of Pausha, the winter Putrada.

Practical meaning

The Putrada fast is favorable for couples wishing for a child, for family well-being, for prayer for offspring. Tradition connects it with the idea that sincere prayer on this day, offered by both spouses together, carries special power.

The Putrada background works through family bonds. It is a day on which space is open to family blessings, especially for those asking for children.

In Indian folk practice Putrada is a day on which childless couples often keep a special fast and prayer. It is one of the most widely kept ekadashi practices tied to a concrete life need.

In daily practice

Putrada is a day for family prayer. If you follow the Hindu tradition and have a wish for offspring, this day is fitting for a joint prayer with your spouse, kept with fasting.

Putrada also suits charity for children: helping orphanages, supporting families with children. The blessing here works through giving.

Putrada also suits the ordinary ekadashi fast: fruit, milk, water, light food. Even if you have no wish for children, tradition connects the fast on this day with a general blessing.

How much this day is yours is refined by Tara Bala. Putrada sets a background of family blessing, and the personal layer shows how far it matches your circumstances today.