Pradosh Vrat stands as one of the most revered and spiritually significant fasts in Hindu tradition. This sacred observance is exclusively dedicated to the divine couple, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is observed on the Trayodashi Tithi, which is the thirteenth day of both the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase) and the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase).
Shukra Pradosh Vrat 2026: Date and Time
According to the drik panchang, the Shukra Pradosh Vrat, which specifically falls on a Friday, will be observed on the Trayodashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Magha. In 2026, this auspicious day falls on January 30, 2026. The detailed timings for the observance are as follows:
- Trayodashi Tithi Begins: January 30, 2026 - 11:09 AM
- Trayodashi Tithi Ends: January 31, 2026 - 08:25 AM
- Pradosha Puja Muhurat: 05:59 PM to 08:37 PM
- Day Pradosha Time: 05:59 PM to 08:37 PM
Shukra Pradosh Vrat 2026: Significance
As per Hindu scriptures, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are believed to be filled with immense joy and generosity on this auspicious day. The term "Pradosh" translates to "the first part of the evening," highlighting the timing of the key rituals. This fast is inclusive and can be observed by anyone, regardless of age or gender, making it accessible to all devotees.
According to the Skanda Purana, there are two primary types of Pradosh fasts observed on this day. The first is the midday fast, which allows devotees to break their fast at night, while the second is a more rigorous Pradosh vrat that is maintained for a full day and broken only the following day. Some devotees also choose to worship Lord Shiva in his dynamic Natraj form during this observance.
It is widely believed that those who fast with complete devotion and dedication are blessed with happiness, success, prosperity, and the fulfillment of all desires by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Additionally, unmarried female devotees who worship Goddess Parvati and offer her shringaar (adornments) are said to be granted their ideal husbands, adding a layer of personal aspiration to the spiritual practice.
Shukra Pradosh Vrat 2026: Puja Rituals
The rituals for observing Shukra Pradosh Vrat are detailed and spiritually enriching. Devotees are encouraged to follow these steps with sincerity:
- Rise early in the morning and take a sacred bath to purify oneself.
- Place an idol or image of Shiva Parivaar (the Shiva family) in the worship area.
- Light a diya using sesame oil or desi ghee, offer sweets (preferably white-colored ones), and present white and red flowers as offerings.
- Perform the Pradosh Vrat Katha (the story of the fast) and conduct the Lord Shiva Aarti with devotion.
- Visit a temple to perform abhishekam (ritual bathing) and pooja to the shivalingam using panchamrit (a mixture of five sacred substances).
- During the abhishekam, chant the powerful mantra "Om Namaha Shivaye" repeatedly.
- On the day of Pradosh, devotees should chant "Om Namaha Shivaye" and the "Mahamrityunjay Mantra" 108 times each for enhanced spiritual benefits.
- After presenting bhog prasad to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, those who are unable to keep a strict fast may break it at night with a satvik (pure and simple) meal.
Mantras for Shukra Pradosh Vrat
Chanting specific mantras is a key part of the observance. Here are some essential mantras to recite:
- Om Namah Shivaye..!! - A primary mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Om Namah Parvati Pataye Har Har Mahadeva..!! - A mantra honoring Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.
- Om Trayambhakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam Uravrukmiv Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritat..!! - The Mahamrityunjay Mantra, known for its protective and life-affirming qualities.
By following these rituals and mantras with faith, devotees can deeply connect with the divine energies of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, seeking blessings for a prosperous and harmonious life.
