Shani Pradosh Fast 2024 - Shani Pradosh Vrat 2024 - Shani Pradosh Vrat

Pradosh fast is observed  on the 13th day of each lunar fortnight as per the traditional Hindu lunar calendar. This fast is observed on Krishna Paksha, as well as Shukla Paksha.  Pradosh kaal is the time period of 2 hours 24 minutes after the sunset. Observing fast in pradosh kaal relieves a person from all kind of restrictions and obstacles. Lord Shiva is worshipped on this day. It is believed that a person who observes this fast gets relief from all kind of troubles of life and attains salvation in the end.

Shani Pradosh Story

In ancient times, there was a wealthy man who believed in dharma karma practices. He was a follower of religion and used to make huge charities and donations. Everyone used to respect him. But, despite of having everything he used to remain sad because he didn't have any child. One fine day, he and his wife decided to go on a pilgrimage. During their journey, they meet a priest who gets impressed with their religiosity and faith in lord. He tells the couple about Shani Pradosh fast and how observing the fast can help them fulfill their desires. After completing their pilgrimage, both of them observe Shani Pradosh fast with rituals and eventually gets blessed with a son.

Shani Pradosh Puja Rituals

Individual observing Pradosh fast should wake up early in the morning before sunrise. Complete the routine work and worship Lord Bholenath. No food is taken in this fast. After the full day fasting, one hour before sunset, bath is taken and white clothes are worn.

Using a solitary site for worshiping in the direction of Ishan kon is considered auspicious. Place used for worshiping should be cleaned with Ganga jal or any pure water. Then, a open hall(Mandap) is made using cow dung. Now, in this Mandap, a figure of lotus is created using five colors.

People observing Pradosh Vrat should use Kusha meditation mat. Preparing to the Puja, sit in a position facing north-east and pray to Lord Shiva. When worshiping, Lord Shiva should be offered water while chanting the mantra  "Om Namah Shivaya”

After keeping the fast for 11 or 26 Trayodashi, the Vrat is concluded. It is also known by the name of Udyapan. For the conclusion of this fast, Trayodashi Tithi is selected. One day before Udyapan,Lord Ganesha is worshiped. One night before, Kritan and Jagran are performed. Early in the  morning, the Mandap is made and decorated with clothes and lotus flowers. A rosary of Shiva mantra  is chanted and hawan is performed. Kheer is used in Aahuti(offering) in Hawan.

After the Hawan is over, Aarti of God Bholenath is performed and Peace mantra(Shanti Path) is recited. At the end, two Brahmans are offered food. Also, alms are given as per ones capacity and blessing are taken.

Shani Pradosh Fast Results

Pradosh occurring on Saturday is known as Shani Pradosh kaal. Those who don’t have any child. can observe the fast to get blessed.