Pradosh Vrat

Significance

A sacred observance dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, observed on the Trayodashi (13th day) of both lunar fortnights. Observing this fast and performing puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight) is believed to absolve sins, fulfill desires, and grant moksha (liberation). Pradosh Vrat is observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that observing this fast and performing puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the auspicious twilight period around sunset) helps in attaining salvation (moksha), fulfilling desires, cleansing past sins, and achieving spiritual well-being. It is particularly auspicious for seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Observed to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the auspicious twilight period (Pradosh Kaal) on Trayodashi tithi. Devotees fast and perform puja to seek blessings, attain peace, prosperity, and liberation, and to alleviate sins and negative karma. It is believed that worshipping Shiva during Pradosh Kaal fulfills desires. Observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, particularly for prosperity, fulfillment of desires, spiritual growth, and relief from karmic burdens. It's believed that worshipping Shiva during the Pradosh Kaal (twilight) is highly auspicious. Observed to honor Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Fasting and worshipping during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period) are believed to cleanse sins, fulfill desires, and attain moksha (salvation) and blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness. A sacred fasting day dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Observed to seek blessings for happiness, prosperity, fulfillment of desires, spiritual growth, and liberation (moksha). It is believed that worshipping Shiva during the Pradosh Kala (twilight period) is highly auspicious and removes sins. Observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, attain moksha, cleanse sins, and fulfill desires. It is believed to be highly auspicious for devotion to Shiva and to gain relief from negative influences. Observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for spiritual growth, fulfillment of desires, alleviation of sins, and liberation. It is considered an auspicious time when Lord Shiva is believed to be in a joyous mood and performs the cosmic Tandava dance. Observed to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, seeking their blessings for happiness, prosperity, good health, removal of sins, and fulfillment of desires. It is believed that worshipping Shiva during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the twilight period) is highly auspicious and grants liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Observed to honor Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees fast and perform puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period) to seek blessings for removal of sins, fulfillment of desires, spiritual liberation (moksha), and overall well-being. It is believed that Lord Shiva is in a very joyous and benevolent mood during this specific time. Observed to honor Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Worshipping them during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period) is believed to absolve sins, grant wishes, bring prosperity, and attain moksha. It is considered highly auspicious for seeking Lord Shiva's blessings and protection. Pradosh Vrat is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is observed for seeking their blessings, liberation from sins, fulfilling desires, attaining spiritual growth, and achieving moksha (salvation). It's believed that Lord Shiva performs the cosmic dance (Tandava) during the Pradosh Kaal (twilight period) on this day. A sacred fast observed to honor Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, particularly during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period). Devotees believe observing this vrat brings happiness, prosperity, fulfillment of desires, and freedom from sins and negative karma. Pradosh Vrat is observed to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the auspicious twilight period (Pradosh Kala). It is believed to remove sins, fulfill desires, bring peace, prosperity, and attain moksha (liberation). Observing this fast is said to be equivalent to observing 100 fasts. Pradosh Vrat is observed to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Devotees believe that observing this fast and performing rituals during the auspicious 'Pradosham Kala' (twilight period) helps attain liberation (moksha), fulfill wishes, seek blessings for health, wealth, and spiritual growth, and absolve sins. Pradosh Vrat is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is observed on the Trayodashi Tithi (13th day) of both Krishna Paksha (waning moon) and Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in every Hindu lunar month. Observing this fast and performing puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the twilight period just before and after sunset) is believed to absolve sins, grant desires, and bring happiness, prosperity, and spiritual liberation. A bi-monthly fast observed to propitiate Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed to bestow blessings, fulfill desires, grant liberation from sins, and bring peace and prosperity. Observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for happiness, prosperity, fulfillment of desires, relief from sins, and attainment of liberation (moksha). It's believed that observing this fast during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period) is highly auspicious. Pradosh Vrat is observed to honor Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that observing this fast and performing puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the twilight period just before and after sunset) can cleanse sins, fulfill wishes, grant spiritual liberation (moksha), and lead to a prosperous and happy life.

Associated Deities

Key Rituals & Practices

• Fasting (partial or full) from sunrise to sunset.
• Performing Shiva Puja during 'Pradosh Kaal' (approx. 1.5 hours before to 1.5 hours after sunset).
• Abhishek (ritual bathing) of Shiva Lingam with milk, water, honey, ghee, curd, etc.
• Offering bilva leaves, dhatura, flowers, fruits to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and other Shiva mantras.
• Reciting or listening to Pradosh Vrat Katha.
• Visiting Shiva temples.
• Fasting from sunrise to sunset (partial or full, depending on individual capacity).
• Performing Shiva Puja during 'Pradosh Kaal' (approximately 1.5 hours before and 1.5 hours after sunset).
• Abhishekam (ritualistic bathing) of Shiva Lingam with milk, curd, ghee, honey, water, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura flowers, Aak flowers, and Vibhuti (sacred ash) to Lord Shiva.
• Reciting Shiva Stotrams, Shiva Chalisa, or listening to/reading Shiva Purana stories.
• Visiting Shiva temples for darshan and prayers.
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja concludes and consuming sattvic (pure) food.
• Observing a fast (partial or full) from sunrise till the evening puja.
• Performing Shiva Puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the auspicious twilight period, approximately 1.5 hours centered around sunset).
• Bathing the Shiva Lingam with milk, water, ghee, honey, yogurt, etc. (Abhishekam).
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura (thorn apple), Akshat (rice grains), flowers, incense, and lamps.
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and other Shiva mantras, especially the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Reciting or listening to the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
• Visiting Shiva temples, especially during the Pradosh Kaal.
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja and distributing Prasad (holy offerings).
• Fasting from sunrise until the evening puja (may be partial or full, often ending after the Pradosh Kaal puja)
• Worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period, typically 1.5 hours before and after sunset)
• Performing Shiva Lingam Abhishekam with milk, curd, honey, ghee, sugar, water, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura flowers, fruits, and sweets
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' or other Shiva mantras, especially the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
• Reciting Pradosh Vrat Katha (story) and Shiva Chalisa
• Visiting Shiva temples for darshan and prayers
• Observing a fast (either Nirjala - without water, or partial - with fruits/milk) from sunrise until the Pradosh Kaal puja.
• Performing puja and Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shivlingam during Pradosh Kaal (approx. 1.5 hours before to 1.5 hours after sunset).
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura, milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, sugar, water, flowers, and fruits to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting Shiva mantras (e.g., Om Namah Shivaya, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra).
• Reciting Pradosh Vrat Katha (story of the fast).
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja.
• Observing a fast from sunrise to sunset, often a Nirjala Vrat (without water) or Falahari Vrat (with fruits and milk).
• Performing Shiva Puja during the 'Pradosh Kala' (twilight period), which is approximately 3 Ghati (about 72 minutes) before sunset and 3 Ghati after sunset.
• Bathing Lord Shiva's idol or Lingam with milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar, and water (Abhishekam).
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura flowers, Aak flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and other Shiva mantras like the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Reciting or listening to the Pradosh Vrat Katha (legend/story) that explains the significance of the fast.
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja concludes.
• Observing a fast (Nirjala fast - without water, or Phalhari fast - with fruits/milk) from sunrise to sunset.
• Performing Shiva-Parvati puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (approximately 1.5 hours before and after sunset).
• Abhishekam of Shivling with water, milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar, bel leaves (bilva patra), datura flower, bhang.
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Reciting Shiva Chalisa or Shiva Tandava Stotram.
• Visiting Shiva temples and performing aarti.
• Offering prayers and special foods to Shiva and Parvati.
• Observing a fast (partial or complete) from sunrise to sunset.
• Performing special puja to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period, approx. 1.5 hours before and after sunset).
• Bathing the Shiva Lingam with milk, water, curd, honey, ghee, etc. (Abhishekam).
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura flowers, milk, fruits, and sweets to Lord Shiva.
• Visiting Shiva temples and participating in evening aarti.
• Reciting the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
• Breaking the fast after sunset puja, typically with sattvic food.
• Observing a fast from sunrise to sunset. Devotees may observe a partial fast (consuming fruits and milk) or a Nirjala fast (waterless).
• Worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the twilight period, approximately 1.5 hours before sunset to 1 hour after sunset). This is the most crucial time for worship.
• Performing Abhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with sacred substances like milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar, water, and Panchamrit.
• Offering Bael leaves (Bilva Patra), Dhatura flowers, Bhang, Ganga water, Sandalwood paste, Akshat (rice grains), incense, and lamps.
• Chanting Shiva mantras such as 'Om Namah Shivaya' and 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra'.
• Reciting Shiva Chalisa, Shiv Stuti, or listening to Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
• Visiting Shiva temples and offering prayers.
• Observing a fast (complete or partial, e.g., consuming only fruits and milk) from sunrise till sunset.
• Performing Shiva Puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the twilight period, approximately 1.5 hours before and after sunset).
• Performing Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shivlinga with milk, water, yogurt, honey, ghee, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves (Aegle marmelos), Dhatura (thorn-apple), flowers, fruits, sweets, and burning incense and oil lamps to Lord Shiva.
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja, typically with sattvic food.
• Observing a fast (partial or full) from sunrise until the evening puja
• Bathing and purifying oneself before the Pradosh Kaal
• Performing Shiva Lingam Abhishekam with water, milk, honey, curd, ghee, etc.
• Offering bilva leaves, dhatura flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Shiva
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and other Shiva mantras
• Reciting Shiva Purana, Shiva Chalisa, or other sacred texts related to Shiva
• Lighting oil lamps (deepam) in front of Shiva's idol or lingam
• Visiting Shiva temples and participating in evening aarti
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja concludes and Lord Shiva's blessings are sought
• Fasting from sunrise to sunset (some observe a partial fast, others a complete fast).
• Performing Shiva Puja, especially during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (the twilight period, approximately 45 minutes before to 45 minutes after sunset).
• Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with milk, curd, honey, ghee, sugar, water, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura flowers, Bhang, Vibhuti (sacred ash), and other items sacred to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting Shiva Mantras, particularly 'Om Namah Shivaya' and the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Listening to or reciting the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
• Lighting lamps (diyas) in the evening.
• Observing a full or partial fast from sunrise to sunset.
• Performing puja (worship) of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati specifically during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (approx. 1.5 hours before and after sunset).
• Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shivlinga with milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar, water, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves, dhatura, cannabis (bhang), flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting Shiva mantras like 'Om Namah Shivaya' and 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra'.
• Reading the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
• Fasting: Devotees observe a partial or full fast from sunrise until after the Pradosh Kala puja.
• Ablution: Taking a holy bath (snan) before sunset, often twice (once in the morning and once before Pradosh Kala puja).
• Puja Preparation: Decorating the puja altar, arranging offerings like Bilva leaves, flowers, milk, curd, ghee, honey, water (Panchamrit), fruits, sweets, incense, and lamps.
• Pradosh Kala Puja: The main worship is performed during the 'Pradosh Kala,' which is the approximately 1.5-hour period before and 1.5-hour period after sunset. This is considered the most auspicious time for Shiva worship.
• Shiva Lingam Worship: Performing Abhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with sacred substances.
• Chanting Mantras: Reciting 'Om Namah Shivaya', 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra', and other Shiva stotras.
• Reciting Vrat Katha: Reading or listening to the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story) that highlights the significance and benefits of the fast.
• Aarti: Performing the lamp ceremony.
• Breaking Fast: The fast is typically broken after the completion of the Pradosh Kala puja and distribution of prasad (offerings).
• Observing a fast from sunrise until sunset (some devotees observe a partial fast, consuming fruits and milk, while others observe a strict waterless fast).
• Performing puja (worship) to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati during the 'Pradosham Kala', which is the approximately 1.5-hour period around sunset (45 minutes before and 45 minutes after sunset).
• Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, curd, honey, ghee, sugarcane juice, etc.
• Offering bilva leaves, dhatura flowers, Bhaang, holy ash (Bhasma), incense, lamps (diya), and sweets to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' (the Panchakshari Mantra) and other Shiva mantras.
• Reciting Shiva Chalisa, Shiva Ashtakam, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, and stories related to Lord Shiva.
• Visiting Shiva temples, especially during the Pradosham Kala.
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja and aarti.
• Observing a fast from sunrise to sunset, sometimes a partial fast or full Nirjala (waterless) fast.
• Performing Shiva Puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period, approximately 1.5 hours before and after sunset).
• Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Shiva Lingam with milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar, water, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves, dhatura, bhang, flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Shiva.
• Reciting or listening to Pradosh Vrat Katha (story).
• Lighting lamps (diyas) in front of Shiva's idol or lingam.
• Breaking the fast after the Pradosh Kaal puja is completed.
• Observing a fast from sunrise until sunset, or a partial fast.
• Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, etc.
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura, Akshat, flowers, incense, and lamps to Lord Shiva.
• Chanting Shiva mantras, especially 'Om Namah Shivaya' and 'Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra'.
• Fasting from sunrise to sunset (often a Nirjala fast, without water, or phalahar, fruit-only).
• Performing worship of Lord Shiva and Parvati during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (twilight period, approximately 1.5 hours before and after sunset).
• Bathing the Shiva Lingam with water, milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar (Abhishekam).
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura, fruits, flowers, incense, lamps, and sweets to the deities.
• Chanting Shiva Mantras (e.g., Om Namah Shivaya, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra).
• Reciting the Pradosh Vrat Katha or listening to Shiva Purana narratives.
• Observing a fast (either strict waterless or partial) from sunrise until the evening puja.
• Performing Shiva Puja during the 'Pradosh Kaal' (approximately 1.5 hours before sunset until 1 hour after sunset). This is the most crucial time for worship.
• Bathing and adorning the idol or Shiva Lingam.
• Offering Bilva leaves, Dhatura flowers, milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, sugar, and water (Panchamrit) to the Shiva Lingam.
• Chanting 'Om Namah Shivaya' and other Shiva mantras, as well as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.
• Reciting or listening to the 'Pradosh Vrat Katha' (story of Pradosh).
• Visiting Shiva temples for darshan and participation in evening aarti.
• Breaking the fast after the evening puja with light, sattvic food.

Hindu Calendar Details

Historical & Mythological Context

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison (Halahala) that emerged during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean) to save the universe. This act of self-sacrifice happened during the Pradosh Kaal on a Trayodashi Tithi. Devotees believe Shiva is in an exceptionally benevolent mood during this period, making it ideal for worship. The most prominent mythological context for Pradosh Vrat is related to the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the cosmic ocean) by Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons). When the deadly poison 'Halahala' emerged, threatening to destroy the universe, Lord Shiva consumed it to save creation. Goddess Parvati held his throat to prevent the poison from reaching his stomach, causing his throat to turn blue (hence, Nilakantha). This divine act of selfless sacrifice by Lord Shiva is believed to have happened during the 'Pradosh Kaal' on a Trayodashi. Since then, gods and devotees worship Lord Shiva during this auspicious period to express gratitude and seek blessings. The most prominent mythological context is associated with the 'Samudra Manthan' (ocean churning) incident. When the gods and demons churned the cosmic ocean for Amrita (elixir of immortality), a deadly poison named Halahala emerged. To save the universe from its destructive effects, Lord Shiva consumed this poison and held it in his throat, turning it blue (hence 'Nilakantha' - the blue-throated one). The gods offered prayers and gratitude to Shiva during the twilight period (Pradosh Kaal) when he consumed the poison. It is believed that Shiva is in a very benevolent and blissful mood during this time, making prayers and worship particularly potent and fulfilling. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat commemorates the day Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison 'Halahala' that emerged during the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning) by the Devas and Asuras. Shiva held the poison in his throat, turning it blue (hence 'Nilakantha'), saving the universe from destruction. This selfless act happened during the Pradosh Kaal on a Trayodashi. Grateful, the Devas worshipped Shiva during this time, and he performed the 'Tandava' dance of cosmic bliss for them. It is believed that Lord Shiva is in a very benevolent and joyous mood during Pradosh Kaal, making it an ideal time for worship and seeking blessings. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva consumed the Halahala (deadly poison) that emerged during the Samudra Manthan (ocean churning) by Devas and Asuras, to save the universe. This event is said to have occurred on a Trayodashi during the Pradosh Kaal. Observing Pradosh Vrat is believed to honor this selfless act. It is also believed that Lord Shiva performs his cosmic dance (Tandava) during this auspicious twilight period. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is linked to the 'Samudra Manthan' (the churning of the cosmic ocean). When the deadly poison 'Halahala' emerged, threatening to destroy the universe, Lord Shiva consumed it to save creation. It is believed that he held the poison in his throat (turning it blue) and performed the 'Tandava' dance between the Trayodashi Tithi and Pradosh Kala. The Devas and Asuras then worshipped Shiva during this time, hence this period is considered highly sacred for Shiva worship. The most prominent legend associated with Pradosh Vrat is the 'Samudra Manthan' (Churning of the Ocean). During this event, a deadly poison (Halahala) emerged, threatening to destroy the universe. Lord Shiva consumed the poison to save creation, holding it in his throat, which turned blue. This act of sacrifice is believed to have occurred during the Pradosh Kaal, making this period sacred for Shiva worship as a gesture of gratitude and devotion. According to Hindu mythology, during the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the cosmic ocean), a deadly poison named Halahala emerged. To save the universe from destruction, Lord Shiva consumed this poison. It is believed that he held the poison in his throat and later performed the Tandava dance during the twilight period of the Trayodashi tithi. Observing Pradosh Vrat during this sacred time is believed to honor Shiva's sacrifice and invoke his divine grace. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is associated with the 'Samudra Manthan' (the churning of the cosmic ocean) by Devas and Asuras to obtain Amrita (elixir of immortality). When the deadly poison 'Halahala' emerged, threatening to destroy the universe, Lord Shiva consumed it to save creation. He held the poison in his throat, which turned blue, earning him the name 'Neelkanth'. This act of selflessness and sacrifice occurred on a Trayodashi, and the twilight period when he held the poison became known as Pradosh Kaal. Observing Pradosh Vrat on this day is a way of honoring Shiva's benevolence and seeking his protection. The most significant mythological context is linked to the 'Samudra Manthan' (the churning of the cosmic ocean) by the Devas and Asuras. During this event, a deadly poison called Halahala emerged, threatening to destroy the entire universe. Lord Shiva, out of compassion for all beings, consumed this poison, holding it in his throat (which turned blue, hence 'Neelkanth') to save the world. This selfless act is believed to have occurred on a Trayodashi, and it is said that Lord Shiva performs his cosmic dance (Tandav) during the Pradosh Kaal, signifying his role as the preserver and destroyer. The most prominent legend associated with Pradosh Vrat is the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the cosmic ocean). When the deadly poison 'Halahala' emerged, threatening to destroy the universe, Lord Shiva consumed it to protect all beings. This act of salvation occurred during the Pradosh Kaal (twilight). Devas (gods) then worshipped Lord Shiva during this auspicious time, hence making it a significant period for devotion to Shiva and Parvati. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is associated with the 'Samudra Manthan' (the churning of the cosmic ocean) event. When the Halahala (deadly poison) emerged from the ocean, Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe. This act of self-sacrifice occurred during the 'Pradosh Kaal' on a Trayodashi. Hence, this time is considered highly sacred for worshipping Lord Shiva, as it commemorates his compassion and power. One of the most prominent legends associated with Pradosh Vrat is linked to the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the cosmic ocean). When the deadly poison 'Halahala' emerged, threatening to destroy the universe, Lord Shiva consumed it to protect creation. Goddess Parvati then held his throat to prevent the poison from spreading further. This act of self-sacrifice by Shiva is believed to have occurred during the Pradosh Kaal, making this period sacred for His worship. It is also believed that Lord Shiva performs the 'Ananda Tandava' (dance of bliss) in His abode, Kailash, during Pradosh Kaal. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is deeply significant due to the event of Samudra Manthan (the churning of the cosmic ocean). During this churning, a deadly poison called Halahala emerged, threatening to destroy the universe. Lord Shiva, out of boundless compassion, consumed the poison to save all beings. This act happened on a Trayodashi Tithi during the twilight hour (Pradosh Kala). All the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) worshipped Lord Shiva at this time, recognizing his supreme sacrifice. Observing Pradosh Vrat is a way of honoring Lord Shiva's divine act of protection and seeking his blessings for a trouble-free life and spiritual growth. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is associated with the incident of Samudra Manthan (the churning of the cosmic ocean). When the deadly poison 'Halahala' emerged, threatening to destroy the universe, Lord Shiva consumed it to save creation. This act of self-sacrifice is believed to have taken place during the twilight period of Trayodashi, and in gratitude, the Devas (gods) worshipped him. Observing Pradosh Vrat is a way to honor Lord Shiva's compassionate act and seek his blessings. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is strongly associated with the incident of 'Samudra Manthan' (the churning of the cosmic ocean). When the deadly poison Halahala emerged, Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe. He held the poison in his throat, which turned blue, earning him the name 'Neelkantha'. The time when he consumed the poison is considered Pradosh Kaal. It is believed that during this auspicious time, Lord Shiva is in an extremely benevolent mood, along with Goddess Parvati, residing at Mount Kailash, ready to grant boons and forgive sins of his devotees. This vrat is also said to be observed by gods themselves to attain their desires. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is closely associated with the Samudra Manthan (the churning of the cosmic ocean). When the deadly poison Halahala emerged, Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe, holding it in his throat, turning it blue (hence 'Neelakantha'). This event is believed to have happened during the Pradosh Kaal, and thus the time is considered auspicious for Shiva worship to mitigate negative influences and receive blessings. According to Hindu mythology, Pradosh Vrat is associated with the 'Samudra Manthan' (churning of the ocean). When the deadly poison Halahala emerged, Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe. He held the poison in his throat, and this event occurred during the 'Pradosh Kaal' on a Trayodashi. It is also believed that Lord Shiva performs his cosmic dance (Tandava Nritya) at the time of Pradosh, blessing all deities and devotees. The most significant mythological context is linked to the 'Samudra Manthan' (the churning of the cosmic ocean). During this event, a deadly poison (Halahala) emerged, threatening to destroy the universe. Lord Shiva consumed this poison to save all beings, holding it in his throat (which turned blue, hence 'Neelkanth'). This act of selfless sacrifice occurred on a Trayodashi. It is believed that Shiva and Parvati were extremely pleased and performed their divine dance (Tandava) during the Pradosh Kaal on this day. Thus, observing Pradosh Vrat is a way to honor Shiva's compassion, power, and his role as the protector of the universe.

Regional Variations