In the Hindu calendar, Pradosh Vrat is considered highly auspicious and rewarding. Observing this fast is believed to bring the special grace of Lord Shiva and pave the way for overcoming life's obstacles. This fast occurs twice every month – once during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) and once during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon). This fast is observed on the Trayodashi Tithi, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Significance of Pradosh Vrat
The special significance of Pradosh Vrat lies in the fact that it is considered the most opportune time to worship Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva bestows special blessings upon his devotees during the evening of the Trayodashi Tithi. Performing worship and rituals on this day not only alleviates physical and mental suffering but also brings happiness, peace, and prosperity to life. Especially in the month of Sawan (Shravan), the importance of this fast increases manifold because this month itself is extremely dear to Lord Shiva.
Last Pradosh Vrat of Sawan: August 6, 2025
The month of August will begin with the Sawan month, and the last Pradosh Vrat of Sawan will be observed in the same month. The Trayodashi Tithi of Sawan Shukla Paksha falls on August 6. This Tithi will begin at 2:08 PM and end on August 7 at 2:27 PM. Therefore, the Pradosh Vrat will be observed on August 6.
Auspicious Time for Worship
Performing worship during Pradosh Kaal on this day is considered especially fruitful. On August 6, the best time for worship will be from 7:08 PM to 9:16 PM. During this time, worshiping Lord Shiva, performing Rudrabhishek, offering Belpatra (wood apple leaves), incense, lamps, and chanting mantras is believed to bestow special blessings.
Second Pradosh Vrat of August: August 20, 2025
The second Pradosh Vrat in August will fall on the Trayodashi Tithi of Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha. This Tithi will begin on August 20 at 1:58 PM and end on August 21 at 12:44 PM. The date for observing the fast will be August 20.
Auspicious Time and Special Yoga of the Day
This Pradosh Vrat falls on a Wednesday, hence it will be called Budh Pradosh Vrat. The auspicious time for worship on this day will be from 6:20 PM to 8:33 PM. Since Wednesday is dedicated to Mercury (Budh), the deity of intellect and speech, along with the worship of Shiva, one also prays for stability in speech and decisions.
Puja Rituals of Pradosh Vrat
The worship in Pradosh Vrat is performed according to specific rules. On this day, the devotee should wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and observe a fast throughout the day. In the evening, during Pradosh Kaal, the Shivling is worshiped.
- First, anoint the Shivling with water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and Ganga Jal (holy water from the Ganges River).
- Offer Belpatra, Dhatura (thorn apple), white flowers, and Bhasma (sacred ash).
- Offer white clothes to Lord Shiva and light incense sticks and a lamp.
- Chant Shiva mantras, such as "Om Namah Shivaya" or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra.
- Worship Goddess Parvati along with Lord Shiva.
- Listening to the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story) after the Aarti (ritual of worship) is also considered auspicious.
Festival Related to Devotees' Faith
Pradosh Vrat is not just a day of worship; it is a spiritual practice. On this day, devotees observe a fast, keep their body and mind in control, and submit their sorrows at the feet of Lord Shiva. On this day, special Bhajan-Kirtan (devotional songs) and Rudrabhishek are organized in Shiva temples in many places.
Puja Can Be Done at Home Too
If someone cannot go to the temple, they can worship Lord Shiva's idol or picture at home with proper rituals. Shiva devotion can be realized through meditation and mantra chanting. Reading Rudrashtakam, Shiva Chalisa, and stories related to Shiva Purana at home is also beneficial.
Special Grace of Shiva in Sawan
As the first Pradosh Vrat of August is falling in the month of Sawan, this time is extremely favorable for Shiva devotion. The last Pradosh Vrat of Sawan is performed especially so that the spiritual practice of the entire month can attain completeness. It is said that the desires of devotees who observe the fast with a sincere heart in Sawan are fulfilled quickly.
