Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha | Legends of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi

Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha

Arjuna bowed at the feet of Lord Krishna with deep reverence and prayed - "O Madhusudan! Kindly bestow your grace and describe the significance of the Ekadashi falling during the Shukla Paksha in the Pausha month. What is the name of this Ekadashi? What is its observance method? Which deity is worshipped on this day? Kindly provide detailed answers to all my questions."

In response to Arjuna's questions, Lord Krishna said - "O Arjuna! The Ekadashi that falls in the Shukla Paksha of the Pausha month is known as Putrada Ekadashi. Its observance should be conducted following the method previously described. On this day, one should worship Lord Shri Hari. Among all fasts, there is no other fast comparable to the Putrada Ekadashi. Its merits bless the devotee with austerity, wisdom and wealth. Now, I will narrate to you the story associated with this Ekadashi. Listen to it with faith and devotion -

In ancient times, there was a king named Suketumana who ruled the city of Bhadravati. He had no children and his wife's name was Shaivya. The childlessness of the king was a cause of great concern for him. Often, he was worried about who would perform the Pinda Dana, i.e., ancestral offerings for him and his forefathers after his demise. Even his ancestors, who received Pinda Dana, were distressed, wondering who would continue the offerings after Suketumana. Despite having wealth; a kingdom, elephants, horses and loyal relatives, the king was unsatisfied. The sole reason for his unhappiness was his lack of an heir. Without a son, one cannot repay their debt to ancestors and deities. Consumed by this worry day and night, the king became deeply sorrowful. One day, overcome by his anguish, he considered ending his own life. However, he quickly realised that suicide is a grave sin and dismissed the thought. Lost in such thoughts, he mounted his horse and ventured into the forest.

Mounted on his horse, the king rode through the forest, observing the chirping birds and trees around him. In the forest, he saw deer, tigers, lions and monkeys roaming freely. He noticed an elephant strolling amidst its calves and female companions. The king also came across jackals emitting harsh cries in some areas, while in other parts, peacocks danced joyously with their families. The beauty and vibrancy of the forest deepened the king's sorrow as he pondered why he remained childless. In this contemplation, it was already midday. The king reflected, 'I have performed numerous Yajnas and provided delicious meals to Brahmins, yet this sorrow persists. Why am I afflicted by this suffering despite all my efforts? What is the reason behind it? Who can I share my grief with and who can provide a solution to my anguish?'

Engrossed in his thoughts, the king began to feel thirsty and started searching for water. After travelling for some distance, he came upon a serene lake adorned with blooming lotus flowers. The storks, swans, crocodiles and others were engrossed in aquatic play. Around the lake, several Ashrams of sages were situated, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. Suddenly, the king's right limb began to twitch, which he interpreted as a good omen. Feeling a sense of joy in his heart, he dismounted from his horse, approached the lake and bowed respectfully before the sages seated by its shore. He then sat humbly in their presence.

The sages said - 'O King! We are extremely pleased with you. Tell us whatever is your wish.'

The king then asked, 'O revered sages! Who are you and why have you taken residence here?'

The sages replied - 'O King! Today is Putrada Ekadashi, the Ekadashi that bestows the boon of an excellent son to those who desire offspring. Five days from today, the sacred Magha Snana will occur and we have come to this lake for our ritual baths.'

Hearing the sages, the king said - 'O sages! I too do not have a son. If you are pleased with me, I humbly request you to grant me the blessing of a child.'

The sages said - 'O King! Today is Putrada Ekadashi. Observe a fast on this day. By the grace of Lord Shri Hari, you will surely be blessed with a son.'

The king followed the sages' advice and observed the fast on that day. On Dwadashi (the next day), he broke the fast with proper rituals and paid his respects to the sages before returning to his city. By the grace of Lord Shri Hari, the queen soon conceived. Nine months later, she gave birth to a radiant son. As the prince grew up, he became exceptionally brave, wealthy, renowned and an excellent ruler who cared deeply for his people."

Lord Shri Krishna said - "O Pandunandana! To obtain a son, one must observe the fast of Putrada Ekadashi. There is no greater vow for the fulfillment of this desire. Anyone who reads or listens to the significance of Putrada Ekadashi and observes this fast according to the prescribed rules is blessed with a virtuous and capable son. By the grace of Lord Shri Hari, that person also attains Moksha i.e. liberation."

Synopsis (Katha Saar)

Not having a son is considered highly unfortunate, but even more unfortunate is having an unworthy son. Therefore, obtaining a virtuous and capable son is extremely rare. Such a son is granted only to those who receive the blessings of sages and whose hearts are devoted to God. In this age of Kali Yuga, the best method for attaining a worthy son is by observing the fast of Putrada Ekadashi.