About Shravana Putrada Ekadashi:
Ekadashi that falls during the Shukla Paksha in the month of ‘Shravana’ is celebrated as Shravan Putrada Ekadashi. It is also known as ‘Pavitra Ekadashi’ and ‘Pavitropana Ekadashi. Shravan Putrada Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is observed by husband and wife, to be blessed with a son. This day is particularly propitious for Vaishnavas, who are the devotees of Lord Vishnu. ‘Putrada’ signifies ‘giver of sons’ and hence it is believed that observing the Ekadashi fast in the month of Shravan fulfils the desires of a male child. Shravan Putrada Ekadashi is celebrated with great zeal.
Significance of Shravana Putrada Ekadashi:
Each of the 26 Ekadashis observed has a specific goal. Shravan Putrada Ekadashi has powers to bestow a childless couple with a male progeny. Shravan Putrada Ekadashi and Pausha Putrada Ekadashi are ‘giver of sons.’ The importance of Shravan Putrada Ekadashi is mentioned in the ‘Bhavishya Purana’ as a discussion between King Yudhisthira and Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna has explained the rituals and benefits of observing this fast. Besides being blessed with a male offspring, devotees observe the Shravan Putrada Ekadashi to wash away their sins and attain salvation.
Legend:
The legend about Pavitropana Ekadashi was narrated by Lord Krishna to the King Yudhishthira in the Bhavishya Purana. King Mahijit was a powerful ruler of Mahishmati, who had no children. He sought the counsel of sages and priests to find a solution. Sage Lomesh found out that King Mahijit's misfortune was a result of his sins in his previous birth. In his previous birth, Mahijit was a merchant. While travelling on business, the merchant became thirsty. He reached the pond. A cow and her calf were drinking water. The merchant drove them away, and he drank the water. This sin was the reason behind being childless, while his good deeds resulted in his birth as a king. Sage Lomesh advised the King and the Queen to observe Ekadashi fast in Shravana month to get rid of the sin. The couple kept a fast and offered prayers to the Lord Vishnu. Their wish was fulfilled when a son was born to them.
Celebration/ Rituals:
On Putrada Ekadashi, couples observe strict fast while some opt for a partial fasting. Eating of grains, pulses, rice, onion and non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited on Shravan Putrada Ekadashi. The Vrata begins on ‘Dashami,’ and the observer must eat only ‘saatvik’ food. Complete celibacy is observed on Dashami night. No food is eaten from sunrise of Ekadashi till the dawn of ‘Dwadashi. The fast is broken after the puja rituals and offering food to a respected Brahmin. Lord Vishnu is worshipped with full devotion and enthusiasm. ‘Panchamrit’ Abhishek is performed to the idol of Lord Vishnu. The devotee offer flowers, fruits and other puja essentials to Lord. The observer of the Shravan Putrada Ekadashi keeps a night vigil by singing bhajans in praise of Lord Vishnu. The devotees visit temples of Lord Vishnu in the evening.