Pradosh Vrat, also known as Pradosham, is one of the most sacred fasts dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This vrat is observed during the auspicious period on the Trayodashi tithi (13th lunar day), which starts after sunset.
The time window after sunset when Trayodashi Tithi and Pradosha time overlap is auspicious for Shiva Puja.
The first Pradosh vrat of 2026 is going to fall on January 1, 2026. It will be observed as Guru Pradosh Vrat.
Auspicious time for Guru Pradosh Vrat
According to the Drik Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) of the month of Paush (the bright fortnight of the moon) will begin at 1:47 AM on January 1 (December 31st) and end at 10:22 PM on January 1st.
Guru Pradosh Vrat 2026: Significance
According to legends, worshipping Lord Shiva at this time brings spiritual awakening, happiness and purity. Devotees commemorate this day with joy during Pradosh, as it is a particularly favourable time of the year for prayer and seeking blessings. It is also believed that on this auspicious day, Lord Shiva, as the cosmic dancer Nataraja, performed the Tandava and conquered Demon Apasmara. Devotees believe that this fast removes all the past sins and brings peace in their life. Ruled by Jupiter, this vrat brings spiritual wisdom, blessings of teachers and protection from obstacles in learning.
Guru Pradosh Vrat 2026: Puja Rituals
On Pradosh Vrat, devotees maintain a rigorous fast. Twilight (evening time) is the time period when the puja is performed. Devotees offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati by lighting a diya with desi ghee and offer fruits, flowers, sweets and other offerings. People observe fasts from dawn to dusk, and some people break their fast the next morning.
Pradosh Vrat centres around devotion to Lord Shiva. In the evening hours, generally before sunset, devotees offer prayers, chant sacred mantras, and light diyas as part of the worship. The Shiva Lingam is offered bilva leaves along with milk, curd, ghee, honey, and water, or panchamrit, as devotees seek the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva.