Ekadashi Tithi Begins: at 07:26 PM on Jan 20, 2024
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: at 07:26 PM on Jan 21, 2024
Parana Time – On 22nd Dec, 07:14 AM to 09:21 AM
Note: “Parana” is the breaking of the fast. Ekadashi Parana is observed on the next day of Ekadashi fast after sunrise within Dwadashi Tithi.
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi, as its name implies, is observed by couples and women seeking blessings for a good son, as well as the overall well-being and prosperity of their family. This Ekadashi holds particular significance for parents, as having a son is deemed essential in Hindu culture, as he is expected to provide care in their old age and assist them in attaining spiritual liberation.
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha:
The story of Putrada Ekadashi was recounted by Lord Krishna to King Yudhishthar, the eldest of the five Pandavas. In ancient times, there was a king named Suketuman in the city of Bhadravati. Although he was known for his kindness and generosity, he carried a deep anxiety due to his lack of a son to inherit his kingdom. Despite living a virtuous life devoid of sin or dishonesty, the absence of a male heir troubled him greatly, as he believed it would hinder his happiness in this life and the next.
One day, consumed by despair, King Suketuman wandered into the forest in search of solace. There, by the banks of a tranquil lake, he encountered a group of sages. Sharing his plight with them, he humbly sought their guidance. Impressed by his sincerity, the sages advised him to observe a fast on Paush Shukla Paksha Ekadashi and fervently pray to Lord Vishnu for a son. Following their instructions with unwavering devotion, the king embarked on the prescribed fast.
In due course, the Queen realized she was with child, and nine months later, she gave birth to a son. The kingdom rejoiced at the arrival of their prince, and the royal couple found solace in the fulfillment of their desire for a male heir. Since then, the tradition of observing Pausha Putrada Ekadashi has been followed by couples seeking to conceive children, particularly sons.
Practices to Avoid on Pausha Putra Ekadashi
During Pausha Putra Ekadashi, a highly auspicious period, devotees are encouraged to engage in worship and chant bhajans and kirtans dedicated to Lord Vishnu, especially during the night hours. It is imperative to refrain from certain negative practices as outlined below, as they may lead to undesirable consequences according to Hindu beliefs:
1. Gambling: Participating in any form of gambling or indecent activities on the day of the Putrada Ekadashi fast is strongly discouraged. It is believed that such actions can destroy one’s lineage.
2. Theft: Stealing on Ekadashi fasting days is considered highly sinful, with repercussions that extend to seven generations according to religious beliefs.
3. Dietary Restrictions: Ekadashi fasting is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, and therefore, devotees should adhere to a Satvikk diet during the fast to seek the blessings of the deity.
4. Speech Etiquette: Ekadashi fasting holds significant importance in Hindu tradition, and it is crucial to maintain a respectful and polite demeanor, and refrain from using abusive language, to garner the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
5. Emotional Restraint: On Pausha Putrada Ekadashi, devotees should strive to control their emotions, avoiding anger and falsehoods, as these negative traits may hinder the spiritual benefits of the fast and worship.
Lord Vishnu Mantras
Chanting these mantras is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and the blessings of Lord Vishnu into one’s life.
Primary Mantras of Lord Vishnu:
1. **Shanta Karam Bhujang Shayanam Padma Nabham Suresham.**
2. **Vishwadharam Gaganasdrsyam Meghavarnam Shubhangam.**
3. **Lakshmi Kantam Kamal Nayanam Yogibhirdhyana Nagmyam.**
4. **Om Namo: Narayana. Om Namo: Bhagwat Vasudevaya.**
Vishnu Gayatri Mahamantra:
**Om Narayana Vidmahe. Vasudevay Dhimayi. Tanno Vishnu Prachodayat.**
Invocation of Lord Vishnu:
**Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayharam Sarva Lokakenatham.**
Mantra for Vishnu’s Krishna Avatar:
**Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murare. Hey Nath Narayan Vasudevaya.**
Vishnu Beej Mantra:
**Om Brihaspatiye Namah.**
**Om kleen Brihaspatiye.**
**Om Gram Greem Graums: Gurve Namah.**
**Om Sri Brihaspatiye Namah.**
**Om Gurve Namah.**
Chanting these mantras is believed to invoke divine energies, bringing peace, prosperity, and the blessings of Lord Vishnu into one’s life.