Pausha Putrada Ekadashi पौष पुत्रदा एकादशी
Pausha Shukla Paksha • Ekadashi
Also known as: Vaikuntha Ekadashi (in South India)
Story — Significance of Pausha Putrada Ekadashi
Narrated in Bhavishya Purana. King Suketuman of Bhadravati had no progeny; on advice of sages he observed this Ekadashi and was blessed with a son. Devotees pray for children, family welfare, and progeny.
Benefit
Boon of righteous progeny; relief from childlessness; protection of family lineage
Special Note
In South Indian tradition, this same Ekadashi is celebrated as Vaikuntha Ekadashi — when the gates of Vaikuntha (Vishnu's abode) are believed to open. Lakhs visit Sri Rangam, Tirupati, and other Vishnu temples on this day.
Vrat Vidhi (Procedure)
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1
Dashami Eve Preparation
On the day before Ekadashi (Dashami), eat only one satvik meal before sunset. Avoid grains, lentils, onion, garlic, masala. Sleep early after a clean bath.
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2
Ekadashi Sankalpa at Sunrise
Wake before sunrise (Brahma Muhurta is best). Take bath, wear clean clothes (preferably yellow or white). Stand facing east, hold water and tulsi leaves in your right hand, take sankalpa (vow): 'Today I observe [Name] Ekadashi vrat for the welfare of all beings and to please Lord Vishnu.' Release water on the ground.
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3
Ekadashi Day Practice
Maintain fasting per your tier: Nirjala (without water — for the strong), Phalahar (fruits, milk, water — most common), or Saatvik (one fruit-and-milk meal at noon). No grains, beans, lentils, masala. Spend the day in Vishnu-naam japa, reading Bhagavad Gita / Vishnu Sahasranama, or temple visit.
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4
Evening Vishnu Puja
Light a ghee lamp before Vishnu (or Krishna/Rama/Shaligram) image. Offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, fruits, panchamrit. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or read one chapter of Bhagavad Gita. Aarti.
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5
Dwadashi Parana
Break the fast next morning (Dwadashi) at the prescribed parana time — ideally after sunrise within the parana window (typically the first quarter of Dwadashi). Begin with tulsi water, then a satvik meal. Donate food, clothes, or money before eating yourself. Never break Ekadashi vrat after the parana window closes — wait till next day.
Mantras
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