When is Putrada Ekadashi 2026?

Putrada Ekadashi, a festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu, falls on either August 23 or August 24, 2026, depending on the calendar tradition followed. As reported by The Economic Times, devotees following the Smarta calendar observe the fast on Sunday, August 23, while Vaishnava devotees observe it on Monday, August 24. Free Press Journal likewise notes that Vaishnava Shravana Putrada Ekadashi falls on August 24, while The Times of India lists the date as August 23.

The discrepancy stems from different methods of calculating the Ekadashi fasting day, with the Tithi beginning early on August 23 and continuing into the next day. The Economic Times, citing Drik Panchang, reports that the Ekadashi Tithi begins at 06:30 AM on August 23 and ends at 08:48 AM on August 24. However, Free Press Journal, also citing Drik Panchang, gives different timings—02:00 AM on August 23 to 04:18 AM on August 24. Neither source elaborates on why the timings differ, but both agree that the exact parana timing (breaking the fast) can vary by location.

Significance and the vrat katha

The festival is traditionally observed by devotees who fast, offer prayers, and listen to or recite the Putrada Ekadashi Vrat Katha. As explained in the reports, the day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, with devotees praying for the well-being of children and family happiness. Free Press Journal highlights that the day is especially significant for married couples praying for a child, particularly a son, as the word 'Putrada' translates to 'giver of offspring.'

The origin of the festival is rooted in the Bhavishya Purana, as reported by Free Press Journal. According to the legend, King Mahijit of Mahishmati was childless and distressed. Seeking guidance from sages, he was advised to observe the Putrada Ekadashi fast. After performing the vrat, the king was blessed with a son, which gave the festival its name.

The Economic Times provides a more detailed version of the legend, recounting that King Mahajita (a similar name) ruled Mahishmati. When he consulted the sage Lomasha, the sage explained that in a previous birth the king had driven away a thirsty cow from a reservoir, a sin that led to his childlessness. Following the sage's advice, the king's ministers and others observed the fast and dedicated its merit to Mahajita. After nine months, the queen gave birth to a son.

Astrological and numerological energy

The Times of India, in its coverage, takes a distinctly astrological and numerological approach. It describes the day as having a 'gentle and hopeful astrological tone,' with Moon and Jupiter energy that can help with faith, family bonding, wisdom, care, and wishes of the heart. The report suggests that a stalled family matter may start to move, and that prayers for a child, a marriage, a home, healing, or education may find new hope.

According to The Times of India, in numerology, the energy of Putrada Ekadashi may be felt more strongly by people born on certain dates: 2, 11, 20, and 29; 3, 12, 21, and 30; 6, 15, and 24; 8, 17, and 26; and 9, 18, and 27. For those with birth dates such as 2, 11, 20, and 29, the energy may come through emotions, family, motherly love, children, and peace at home. A sensitive conversation could be the key to a family wish, a close one might soften their position, and a children's issue or emotional gap could begin to heal. The report urges those with such birth dates to be patient, noting that not all blessings come 'with a bang.'

For those born on 3, 12, 21, and 30, The Times of India says the energy can be corroborated by elders, teachers, counsellors, faith, education, or spiritual blessings. A family may find direction in studies, prayers for childbirth, guidance, rituals, travel, or planning for the future, and a wise person may offer the right counsel at the right moment.