Pradosh Vrat, also known as Pradosham, is a significant Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is observed on the 13th day (Trayodashi) of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) lunar fortnights, occurring twice a month. The term “Pradosh” signifies the period just before and after sunset, which is considered an auspicious time for worship.
Pradosh Vrat Dates in 2025
Here are the Pradosh Vrat dates for 2025:
- January 11, 2025 (Saturday): Shani Pradosh Vrat
- January 27, 2025 (Monday): Soma Pradosh Vrat
- February 9, 2025 (Sunday): Ravi Pradosh Vrat
- February 25, 2025 (Tuesday): Bhauma Pradosh Vrat
- March 11, 2025 (Tuesday): Bhauma Pradosh Vrat
- March 27, 2025 (Thursday): Guru Pradosh Vrat
- April 10, 2025 (Thursday): Guru Pradosh Vrat
- April 25, 2025 (Friday): Shukra Pradosh Vrat
- May 9, 2025 (Friday): Shukra Pradosh Vrat
- May 24, 2025 (Saturday): Shani Pradosh Vrat
- June 8, 2025 (Sunday): Ravi Pradosh Vrat
- June 23, 2025 (Monday): Soma Pradosh Vrat
- July 8, 2025 (Tuesday): Bhauma Pradosh Vrat
- July 22, 2025 (Tuesday): Bhauma Pradosh Vrat
- August 6, 2025 (Wednesday): Budha Pradosh Vrat
- August 20, 2025 (Wednesday): Budha Pradosh Vrat
- September 5, 2025 (Friday): Shukra Pradosh Vrat
- September 19, 2025 (Friday): Shukra Pradosh Vrat
- October 4, 2025 (Saturday): Shani Pradosh Vrat
- October 18, 2025 (Saturday): Shani Pradosh Vrat
- November 3, 2025 (Monday): Soma Pradosh Vrat
- November 17, 2025 (Monday): Soma Pradosh Vrat
- December 2, 2025 (Tuesday): Bhauma Pradosh Vrat
- December 17, 2025 (Wednesday): Budha Pradosh Vrat
Please note that these dates are based on the Hindu lunar calendar and may vary slightly depending on regional and local customs.
Significance of Pradosh Vrat
Observing Pradosh Vrat is believed to cleanse devotees of their sins and bestow blessings of prosperity, health, and spiritual growth. Each Pradosh Vrat holds unique significance based on the day it falls:
- Soma Pradosh (Monday): Associated with good health and fulfillment of desires.
- Bhauma Pradosh (Tuesday): Believed to aid in recovery from illnesses and provide relief from debts.
- Budha Pradosh (Wednesday): Enhances intellectual growth and communication skills.
- Guru Pradosh (Thursday): Brings prosperity and spiritual upliftment.
- Shukra Pradosh (Friday): Improves marital harmony and material wealth.
- Shani Pradosh (Saturday): Offers protection from misfortunes and alleviates the malefic effects of Saturn.
- Ravi Pradosh (Sunday): Grants longevity and strength.
Rituals of Pradosh Vrat
- Morning Rituals:
- Devotees wake up early, preferably during the Brahma Muhurta (around 4 AM), and take a holy bath.
- Clean the puja area and set up an altar with an idol or picture of Lord Shiva.
- Fasting:
- The fast begins at sunrise and continues until the Pradosh period (just after sunset).
- Some devotees observe a full fast without food and water, while others may consume fruits and milk.
- Evening Puja:
- During the Pradosh Kaal (approximately 45 minutes before and after sunset), devotees perform the main worship.
- Offerings include flowers, fruits, bel leaves, incense, and lamps.
- Chanting of Shiva mantras, such as “Om Namah Shivaya” or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, is performed.
- Night Vigil:
- Some devotees stay awake throughout the night, singing hymns and praises of Lord Shiva.
- Breaking the Fast:
- The fast is typically broken