🌙 Pradosh Vrat (Krishna Paksha) – 14 March 2026 (Saturday)

Pradosh Vrat is a highly auspicious observance dedicated to Lord Shiva, performed during the twilight period of Trayodashi Tithi. On 14 March 2026, Saturday, the vrat falls in Krishna Paksha and is specifically known as:

“Shani Pradosh”
Because it occurs on a Saturday (Shanivar).

This combination is considered powerful for:

• Removing hardships
• Resolving karmic burdens
• Gaining prosperity, peace, and divine grace
• Protection from negative planetary influences, especially Saturn (Shani)

Devotees observe fasting and worship Shiva and Parvati with devotion during the Pradosh period—around 1.5 hours after sunset.

🌟 Significance of Pradosh Vrat

According to Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana:

• Lord Shiva is most receptive to devotee prayers during Pradosh.
• Worship removes past sins and purifies karma.
• Fasting and meditation during this period bring powerful spiritual upliftment.
• Shani Pradosh is especially beneficial for relief from Saturn-related doshas, financial problems, legal troubles, and emotional stress.

It is also said that:

“A devotee who observes Pradosh with pure heart gains blessings equal to performing extensive yajnas.”

This vrat supports:

✔ Career growth
✔ Health improvements
✔ Family harmony
✔ Long-term success

🙏 Pradosh Vrat Puja Vidhi (Rituals)

1. Vrat and Morning Preparation

• Devotees fast throughout the day
• Bath after sunrise and wear clean clothes
• Keep thoughts pure and devotional

2. Evening Puja (Main Ritual)

Puja is performed during Pradosh Kaal, around twilight.

Items offered to Shiva:

• Bilva leaves
• Water and milk for abhishek
• Sandal paste
• Flowers
• Deepak (oil lamp)
• Fruits and prasad

3. Shiva Mantras

Common mantras include:

ॐ नमः शिवाय  
Om Namah Shivaya

and

महामृत्युंजय मंत्र  
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra

4. Parvati and Nandi Worship

Along with Shiva, devotees worship Maa Parvati and Nandi, the sacred vehicle of Shiva.

5. Charity

Giving food, clothes, or items to the needy increases the benefits of the vrat.

6. Breaking the Fast

The vrat is concluded the next morning, usually after sunrise and puja.

💠 Benefits of Observing Shani Pradosh Vrat

This Pradosh Vrat grants:

• Protection from Shani dosha and planetary challenges
• Success in career, business, and legal matters
• Relief from long-standing worries
• Mental peace, stability, and spiritual strength
• Family well-being and removal of negative influences
• Blessings of Mahadev and Parvati

❓ FAQ – Pradosh Vrat (Krishna Paksha)

Q1. What is Pradosh Vrat?

A fast and puja dedicated to Lord Shiva, performed during Trayodashi Tithi at Pradosh Kaal (evening twilight).

Q2. Why is 14 March 2026 special?

It falls on Saturday, making it Shani Pradosh, considered especially auspicious for relief from Saturn-related difficulties.

Q3. What is the ideal time for puja?

During Pradosh Kaal—about 1.5 hours after sunset.

Q4. What food is allowed during the fast?

Many devotees observe strict fasting, while others take fruits, milk, and vrat-friendly food.

Q5. Which mantra is most commonly chanted?

“Om Namah Shivaya” and the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra.