Ekadashi Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Pavitropana Ekadashi
Pavitropana Ekadashi falls on Shravan Shukla Ekadashi and is also known as Putrada Ekadashi (Sawan Putrada) — the Ekadashi that grants progeny. This is one of two Ekadashis called Putrada in the Hindu calendar, the other being in Paush month. The name "Pavitropana" means "that which purifies completely," and the Shravan version is especially connected to the purification of the self and the blessing of children and family. Lord Vishnu is worshipped with special devotion during the sacred month of Shravan, making this Ekadashi particularly powerful within an already highly auspicious lunar month.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Pavitropana Ekadashi is the primary Ekadashi for those seeking the blessings of progeny — couples trying to conceive, parents seeking healthy and virtuous children, and families desiring the continuation of their lineage. It purifies the body, mind, and soul thoroughly, earning its name "pavitropana" (complete purification). Lord Vishnu bestows his grace for family harmony, marital happiness, and the health of children. It also removes sins related to breaking vows and accumulated impurities, and grants general prosperity and spiritual upliftment to all devotees who observe it faithfully.
Procedure
Begin the observance on Dashami evening with a resolve to fast and pray for the blessings you seek. On Pavitropana Ekadashi morning, wake early, bathe, and dress in clean clothes (white or yellow are auspicious for Vishnu worship in Shravan). Set up an altar with a Vishnu idol or image, and place a pavitra (a sacred thread made of cotton or kusha grass) as the central offering — tying a pavitra to the idol of Vishnu is a hallmark of this Ekadashi. Offer white or yellow flowers, tulsi, sandalwood, and ghee lamp. Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama and the Putrada Ekadashi Katha. Couples seeking children should pray together at the altar. Perform Rudrabhishek (Shiva abhishek is also appropriate in Shravan). Observe a night vigil.
When to Observe
Pavitropana Ekadashi is observed on Shravan Shukla Ekadashi — the 11th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Shravan (July/August). It is also known as Sawan Putrada Ekadashi to distinguish it from the Paush Putrada Ekadashi that occurs in December/January. It is observed by Vaishnavas and all devotees of Lord Vishnu throughout India and the Hindu diaspora, with special significance in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat.
Fasting Rules
Follow standard Ekadashi fasting rules: no grains, lentils, onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food. Fruits, milk, curd, nuts, and sendha namak (rock salt) are permitted. Since Pavitropana Ekadashi falls in Shravan — the holiest month of the Hindu calendar — the overall environment of the month further amplifies the benefit of fasting. Brahmacharya should be observed. Avoid quarreling, speaking harshly, or harboring negative emotions, as the purpose of this Ekadashi is purification (pavitropana) of both the outer and inner self.
How to Break the Fast
Break the Pavitropana Ekadashi fast on Dwadashi morning during the Paran window. Begin with Panchamrit or Tulsi water as prasad, symbolizing purification and the grace of Lord Vishnu. If you tied a pavitra on the Vishnu idol, remove it reverently and wear it yourself as a blessing cord before eating. Perform a brief Vishnu puja and distribute prasad to all family members, especially to children and couples seeking progeny. Feed Brahmins or donate food to the needy before eating yourself. Eat a wholesome sattvik meal and maintain the peaceful, purified state of mind cultivated through the fast.
FAQ
Q.What is Pavitropana Ekadashi?
Pavitropana Ekadashi falls on Shravan Shukla Ekadashi and is also known as Putrada Ekadashi (Sawan Putrada) — the Ekadashi that grants progeny. This is one of two Ekadashis called Putrada in the Hindu calendar, the other being in Paush month. The nam...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Pavitropana Ekadashi?
Follow standard Ekadashi fasting rules: no grains, lentils, onion, garlic, or non-vegetarian food. Fruits, milk, curd, nuts, and sendha namak (rock salt) are permitted. Since Pavitropana Ekadashi falls in Shravan — the holiest month of the Hindu calendar — the overall environment of the month further amplifies the benefit of fasting. Brahmacharya should be observed. Avoid quarreling, speaking harshly, or harboring negative emotions, as the purpose of this Ekadashi is purification (pavitropana) of both the outer and inner self.
Q.When should Pavitropana Ekadashi be observed?
Pavitropana Ekadashi is observed on Shravan Shukla Ekadashi — the 11th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Shravan (July/August). It is also known as Sawan Putrada Ekadashi to distinguish it from the Paush Putrada Ekadashi that occurs in December/January. It is observed by Vaishnavas and all devotees of Lord Vishnu throughout India and the Hindu diaspora, with special significance in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat.
Q.What are the benefits of Pavitropana Ekadashi?
Pavitropana Ekadashi is the primary Ekadashi for those seeking the blessings of progeny — couples trying to conceive, parents seeking healthy and virtuous children, and families desiring the continuation of their lineage. It purifies the body, mind, and soul thoroughly, earning its name "pavitropana" (complete purification). Lord Vishnu bestows his grace for family harmony, marital happiness, and the health of children. It also removes sins related to breaking vows and accumulated impurities, and grants general prosperity and spiritual upliftment to all devotees who observe it faithfully.