The word “Pradosh” in Sanskrit means the ‘sunset time’, which is usually from 4 pm to 6 pm. Also known as ‘Pradosham’, this auspicious occasion is celebrated by the devotees of Lord Shiva and the Lord Nandi as well to fulfill your wishes.

Story of Pradosh Vrat

Once upon a time, it so happened that the Gods and the demons planned to take up the task of churning the vast ocean of milk to get the nectar, which is called as the ‘Amrut’, that blesses one with the eternal life & immortality. In the process of churning with snake Vasuki as the rope, many things came up, along with a deadly poison known as Halahala.

It just then happened that Lord Shiva- ‘the God of Destruction’ arrived there, collected every drop of the poison & drank it himself. Worried, Goddess Parvati soon stopped its effect by touching her hand to the neck of Lord Shiva, resulting in the blue neck. This is how Lord Shiva got the name “Neelkantha”, who saved the world from the poison.

Rules and Rituals to be followed during Pradosh Vrat Puja

• As this puja is performed during the twilight, you need to take a bath before the sunset & wear clean white colored garments.
• Decorate the Chowki where the idol of Lord Ganesh and Lord Shiva-Parvati are to be placed with colorful clothes.
• Perform havan, offer Bhog or Naivedyam & recite the below mantra for 108 times.

“Om Uma Sahit Shivaya Namah”

• Offer maximum Aahuti and begin the Aarti, praising Lord Shiva with complete faith & dedication.
• Provide Dakshina and feed the pandit or the priest. End this process by taking the blessing of Lord Shiva and pandit as well asking them to favor your entire family.

Devotees who observe fast from the morning, break on the next morning after the fresh food is prepared & offered to Lord Shiva during the puja. Some can consume milk & fruits as well on the day of Pradosh.

Pradosham Significance & Benefits

People who observe fast on this day are said to be blessed by good health, prosperity, and happiness. Skanda Purana also says that only a glance of Lord Shankar on this day washes off all your sins.

Names as per the Days of the Week

Pradosham is called by different names on different days of the week as mentioned below;

“Bhanu Pradosh”, “Som Pradosh”, “Bhoum Pradosh”, “Saumyavara Pradosh”, “Guruvara Pradosh”, “Bhruguvara Pradosh”, “Shani Pradosh”