In Hinduism, fasts and festivals hold special significance as they guide the soul towards purification and serve as a means of connecting with God. One such important fast is the Pradosh Vrat, which falls on the Trayodashi Tithi (the 13th day) of each month. Specifically, when this falls on a Tuesday, it is known as Bhaum Pradosh Vrat. This day is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and worship performed with devotion brings positivity, good health, and prosperity to one's life.
Bhaum Pradosh Vrat: A Spiritual Opportunity
Pradosh Vrat is a very beloved day for Shiva devotees. The Trayodashi Tithi and the Pradosh Kaal (twilight period) are especially dear to Lord Shiva. When these two coincide on a Tuesday, the impact becomes even more powerful. On this day, Shiva devotees receive a rare opportunity to attain prosperity, good health, and peace in their lives.
This Bhaum Pradosh Vrat, which falls on July 8, 2025, is the last Pradosh of the Ashadha month and is on the eve of the Sawan month, which begins on July 11th. With this fast, one can begin their journey of Shiva devotion.
Mythological Significance of Pradosh Vrat
According to mythological stories, when the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) took place, the poison Kalakuta emerged, causing all the gods to panic. Then, to protect creation, Lord Shiva held the poison in his throat, because of which he was named Neelkantha (the blue-throated one). This event occurred during the Pradosh Kaal, therefore, this time is very dear to Lord Shiva. By observing this fast, Lord Shiva is pleased and bestows immense grace upon his devotees, destroying diseases, sorrows, misfortune, and poverty from their lives.
Worship Method of Bhaum Pradosh Vrat
1. Preparation in the Morning
- Wake up before sunrise.
- Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
- Purify the place of worship with Gangajal (holy water from the Ganges).
2. Take a Vow for the Fast
While chanting the mantra 'Om Namah Shivaya,' mentally resolve that you will fast for the day and worship Lord Shiva.
3. Worship During Pradosh Kaal
- This time starts approximately 45 minutes before sunset and lasts for 1.5 hours.
- Bathe the Shivling with Gangajal, milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar (Panchamrit).
- Offer Bel leaves, white flowers, Datura, bhang, and sandalwood.
- Apply Tripund Tilak to Shiva and light a lamp.
- Recite the Shiva Chalisa, Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, and Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
4. Worship of Hanuman Ji
- Worshipping Hanuman Ji on Tuesday is also very fruitful.
- Offer Sindoor (vermilion), jasmine oil, and jaggery-chana (gram).
- Chant the mantra 'Om Ham Hanumate Namah' 108 times.
Benefits of Bhaum Pradosh Vrat
- This fast relieves blood disorders, skin diseases, high blood pressure, and other Mangal Doshas (malefic effects of Mars).
- Provides mental peace, family happiness, and economic prosperity.
- Removes obstacles in marriage.
- Pacifies the inauspicious position of the planet Mars in the horoscope.
- This fast purifies the soul and leads it towards liberation.
Special Mantras for Fasting Devotees
- 'Om Namah Shivaya' – Chant this Panchakshari mantra 108 times.
- 'Om Ham Hanumate Namah' – Chant this mantra for the grace of Hanuman Ji.
- 'Om Tryambakam Yajamahe' – Reciting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra 11, 21, or 108 times is considered particularly beneficial.
Precautions and Rules
- Do not speak ill of anyone on the day of the fast.
- Maintain restraint in speech and behavior.
- Observe celibacy at night.
- Meditate on Lord Shiva with concentration during the Pradosh Kaal.
The last Bhaum Pradosh Vrat of the Ashadha month is a special opportunity for Shiva devotion. By worshiping with devotion and discipline on this day, all planetary defects are calmed, and happiness, peace, and prosperity come into life. With the grace of Shiva, freedom from all sufferings is possible.
