"Shravana Putrada Ekadashi"- Blessings for Progeny and Devotional Fasting

"Shravana Putrada Ekadashi" is among the two 'Putrada Ekadashis' coming in a Hindu year, the other being- Pausha Putrada Ekadashi. Just like Pausha Putrada Ekadashi, 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi' also holds immense significance for the devotees. As per Hindu lunar calendar, it falls on the Ekadashi (11th lunar day) of the fortnight of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in Shravana month. The Gregorian calendar marks its observance in the month of either July or August. This year, 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi' falls on the 16th August ‘24.

Also as per Drik Panchang, the tithi for "Shravana Putrada Ekadashi" in ‘24 is as follows:

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi on Friday, 16th August ‘24

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 10:26 AM on 15th August ‘24
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 09:39 AM on 16th August ‘24

Rituals and Observances of “Shravana Putrada Ekadashi”:

Basically, the name 'Putrada' has been derived from two Sanskrit words 'Putra' meaning 'son' and 'ada' meaning 'to give.' Hence, the highest divinity of this 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi' lies in the fact that it blesses one with children.
That's why the people, mainly the childless couples, observe this Ekadashi with utter reverence and devotion to be blessed with a progeny.

Actually, the preparation for Shravan Putrada Ekadashi usually begins well in advance. Devotees clean and decorate their homes and temples, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. Many organize community gatherings, singing devotional songs.

On the day of the Ekadashi, devotees wake up early and take a ceremonial bath before visiting temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Worshiping Lord Vishnu with all sincerity and absolute faith by offering flowers, incense sticks, bhog & fruits (as a gesture of respect & devotion) and performing homas (havana) is also a part of 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi.' Many also perform special pujas and recite Vishnu Sahasranama (the thousand names of Lord Vishnu) with great reverence.

Keeping a strict fast works as an 'add-on' in performing the rituals of this Ekadashi. Devotees abstain from consuming grains, cereals, and lentils on this day. Instead, they consume fruits, nuts, milk, and other fasting-approved food items. The fast is believed to purify the mind, body, and soul, allowing devotees to connect with the divine and seek blessings.

While fasting, devotees also engage in reading sacred texts, singing hymns, and participating in charitable activities.

The fast is concluded by performing 'Parana'.

The Parana timings for 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi' (as per Drik Panchang) are as follows:

• On 17th Aug ‘24, Parana Time - 06:17 AM to 08:05 AM
• On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment - 08:05 AM

Donating food, clothes, and money to the needy is considered highly meritorious during this period.

Reciting 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi' Vrat Katha is also considered blissful. The 'Vrat Katha' was narrated by Lord Krishna to King Yudhishthira as written in Bhavishya Purana.

Legend behind “Shravana Putrada Ekadashi”:

The legend is as follows:

Once there lived a powerful and generous King Mahijit in the kingdom of Mahishmati. He & his wife were leading a very comfortable life. Their praja (people) were also satisfied with them. But the only thing they used to be worried about was their successor. They didn't have any children. The King used to stay tense a lot due to this. To find out the reason behind the same, he had inquired a lot of Brahmins and sages but didn't get anything. He tried to perform so many Yagnas to please the Almighty for blessing him with a child, but nothing happened yet.
One day, he met a very learned sage namely Lomesh. He asked him about the solution to his problem. With his divine visions, Rishi Lomesh found out that this all has been happening due to the sins committed in the previous birth, i.e. the King was a merchant in last life. And one day when he was traveling from a forest, he felt thirsty and went near a pond where a cow and her calf were drinking water. He (the king) scared them to quench his own thirst. Due to the effects of this sin committed, he isn't able to bear a child in this life.
To this, the King requested Rishi Lomesh to help him out. Then, the sage suggested that he observe 'Shravana Putrada Ekadashi' Vrat along with his wife. The King and his wife performed the same: they kept a strict fast on Shravana Putrada Ekadashi following all the relevant rituals. As a result, Lord Vishnu (Sridhar) got pleased from their devotion and blessed them with a beautiful son. Overjoyed by this divine intervention, the king and queen named their child "Harishchandra," who grew up to become a noble and righteous king.

The tale of King Mahijit and Queen Chandrabhaga serves as a powerful testament to the significance of observing Shravan Putrada Ekadashi. Devotees believe that by fasting and performing prayers on this day with a pure heart, they can overcome their sorrows and fulfill their desires of having children or bestowing happiness upon them.

Conclusion:

Overall, this day holds immense significance for devotees who seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for the well-being and prosperity of their children.

But the significance of this Ekadashi extends beyond the desire for children. It emphasizes the importance of devotion, righteousness, and self-discipline. By following the path of truth and moral integrity, devotees aim to receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu, which can lead to happiness, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment.

Shravan Putrada Ekadashi is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor across various regions in India and other countries with significant Hindu populations. The observance of this festival not only strengthens the spiritual connection of individuals with their faith but also fosters a sense of unity and community spirit among devotees.

|| Shubh Shravana Putrada Ekadashi ||

|| Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya ||