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What is Pradosham? And How is it Observed?
What is Pradosham? And How is it Observed?
Pradosham falls twice every month during the waxing and waning phases of the Moon. It is an occasion dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It holds the same significance as Maha Shivaratri; it is majorly celebrated in South India.

There are various pradosham Vrats; the one that takes place in Ashwin month or in October/November. On the day, both men and women observe this fast; some people also observe fast without even consuming water.

However, it is not mandatory to keep Vrat without eating or drinking anything. One can observe Pradosham as the health condition allows. It is believed that when Pradoshcoincides with Shukra (Friday), the devotees get even more benefitted by observing Pradosham. Similarly, when Pradosham falls on Monday, it is called Soma Pradosham. If it happens on Tuesday, it is called Bhuama Pradosham, and on Saturday, it is Shani Pradosham.

Al these Pradoshams have significant benefits if observed. The day cleanses our sins, clears our mind,gives us courage, and let us make the right decisions that glorify our life.

Since people worship Both Shiva and Parvati, they receive extreme bliss in their marital life. People who are unmarried tend to get a suitable life partner by observing this fast.

Legend Behind Pradosham

The legend says that once the demons invaded heaven where all Devat as reside. The asuras created havoc in their abode and disrupted the peace and holiness of the place. To get rid of Asuras’ oppression, all Devas approached Lord Shiva while he was in meditation in Kailasha.

Listening to the requests of the Devas, Lord Shiva opened his eyes, and he with his Vahana Nandi headed to the abode of Devas. Both Lord Shiva and their vehicle Nandi attacked all the demons and crushed them.

This made all Devas thank Lord Shiva, and they rejoiced the victory. It is said that this was the day of Trayodashi. Since then, it is believed that whoever worships Lord Shiva attain paradise while living on Earth.

How Do Planets Make the Day Even More Fruitful?

This Pradosham is falling on Sunday, which is the day of Lord Sun. On this day, Sun will reside in Sagittarius in Moola Nakshatra (Ketu Star). The Sun also makes a combination with Mercury in Purvashada Nakshatra that makes the day invincible.

Hence if one this Pradoshamwe worship Lord Shiva and his beloved along with his vehicle Nandi, we create our path to wealth and wisdom that we can achieve triumph over any worldly thing.The day would clear all mental obstruction and bless us with utmost peace.

Another combination forms when the Moon resides in Krittika Nakshatra, which then moves to its own Nakshatra Rohini. The Moon that resides in two different beneficial Nakshatrasgets associated with Rahu, which resides in Mrigashirsha Nakshatra. The planetary position hence blesses a devotee with success, clears emotional and mental imbalance while making him victorious in several aspects of life.

Further, the mental clarity will be established on this day since Jupiter is aspecting the Moon and Rahu.This formation would also improve our speech so we can easily pursuit important matters.

Dos and Don’ts to Follow on Pradosham

·        Have an early morning bath and wear clean clothes. One can also wear white or yellow clothes.

·        Start your fast as your health permits. You can consume milk and fruits while fasting or do not eat at all.

·        Meditate and chant Mantras for Shiva. Since the Pradosham is on Sunday, chanting Surya Mantra will bring additional benefits.

·        Offer raw milk and bel leaves on the Shivling and chant “Om NamahShivaya.”

·        Offer water to Surya Dev from a copper vessel while chanting the mantra “Om SriSuryaayaNamaha.”

·        Don’t be a part of any immoral act.

·        Don’t belittle anyone, and don’t have cruel intentions.

·        Talk only when necessary, and don’t talk rudely.

·        Don’t consume any non-veg food or drink alcohol.

·        Try to help the poor and feed animals.

Let the Pradoshamilluminate your life and give you the ray of hope. Observe the sunny Pradoshamthis month and navigate through the obstructions to success.

Read the Panchangam on Astropedia and know about the important dates of different fasting and Poojas.