fasts and vrats
What is Putrada Ekadashi and why is it observed by couples seeking children?
What the fast is
Putrada Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the moon in two months: Shravana (July–August) and Pausha (December–January). Like other Ekadashis, it is a day of fasting and worship of Vishnu. The word 'putrada' means 'giver of sons.' On this day, couples—especially those without children—fast, stay awake through the night, chant, and make offerings. Many also give gifts or food to those in need. The fast is broken the next morning after worship.
The story behind it
The Vishnu Purana and Bhavishya Purana tell of a king named Suketuman and his wife Shaibya. They had no children and were filled with sorrow. They performed the Putrada Ekadashi fast with devotion and faith. The tradition says that through Vishnu's grace, they were blessed with a son. This story became the reason the fast is linked to childlessness and the hope for children. Different regions and families may know slightly different versions of this tale.
Why people observe it today
Couples who wish to have children often observe Putrada Ekadashi as an act of faith and devotion. For many, the fast is a way to express hope, to feel connected to the tradition, and to spend a meaningful day together. Some observe it once, others year after year. The practice is found among Hindu families in India and in diaspora communities around the world. Whether and how people observe it varies by family belief, region, and personal choice.