Sawan Putrada Ekadashi 2026: Is this fast only for having a son? Know the rules for couples wishing to have a daughter

In Sanatan Dharma, fasting on Ekadashi has been given special spiritual and religious significance. Among all the Ekadashis that come in the year, Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Sawan month i.e. ‘Putrada Ekadashi’ has a big place. This year the fast of Sawan Putrada Ekadashi will be observed on 23 August 2026. As is clear from its name, this fast is mainly observed for the attainment of a child and for his good wishes. In such a situation, many times this question arises in the minds of people that is this fast only for having a son, and how should the couples who wish to have a daughter observe this fast? Let us know its religious and scriptural rules.

Is the fast of Putrada Ekadashi only for having a son?

According to mythology and Padma Purana, the story of Putrada Ekadashi describes the childless king Suketuman and his queen, who were blessed with a brilliant son with the blessings of Lord Vishnu. In classical stories, the main result of this fast is related to the birth of a son, due to which it is called ‘Putrada Ekadashi’. However, this does not at all mean that this fast is only for those who want a son.

What should a couple who wishes to have a daughter do?

In Hindu religious scriptures, there is no gender discrimination or prohibition of any kind for worshiping Lord Vishnu and observing Ekadashi fast. It is clearly stated in Manusmriti (9.130) – “putrena duhita sama”, which means that the daughter is also equal to the son.

• If a couple wishes to have a healthy, happy and virtuous child (daughter), then they can observe this fast with full devotion and rituals.

• While taking resolutions during the puja, one should clearly put forth one’s wishes in the form of a prayer before Lord Vishnu.

How to do puja and remedies if you wish to have a daughter?

If you are fasting on this auspicious day with the wish of having a child, then some special rules should be followed:

• Worship of Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi: On this day, worship Lord Vishnu and Mother Lakshmi, the protectors of the world, with rituals. Mother Lakshmi is considered the goddess of prosperity, good fortune, opulence and household happiness. Offer lotus, red or white flowers to the mother during the puja.

• Offering of Tulsi group: Tulsi is very dear to Lord Vishnu. While offering clean Tulsi leaves after bath, do chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay”.

• Mantra chanting and circumambulation: On the evening of Ekadashi, sit near the Tulsi plant and chant the mantra of Lord Vishnu with devotion 108 times and circumambulate Tulsi Mata. While doing parikrama, pray to God for a healthy, auspicious and happy life for your family.