In Hinduism, fasting and observing religious vows (vrats) hold significant importance. Among these, the Pradosh Vrat is a prominent vow, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This vrat occurs twice each month, once on the Trayodashi (13th day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) and again on the Trayodashi of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight). In June 2025, this vrat presents a valuable opportunity for devotees to engage in spiritual practices, attain mental peace, and seek Lord Shiva's blessings.
This year, the final Pradosh Vrat of June falls on Sunday, June 23rd, 2025, coinciding with the Trayodashi of the Krishna Paksha in the Ashadha month. On this day, devotees will observe a fast and perform puja (worship) during the Pradosh Kaal, praying for happiness, prosperity, freedom from illness, and spiritual growth.
Pradosh Vrat Date and Muhurat (Auspicious Time) - June 2025
- Vrat Tithi Begins: June 23, 2025, at 01:21 AM
- Tithi Ends: June 23, 2025, at 10:09 PM
- Pradosh Kaal Puja Muhurat: 07:22 PM to 09:23 PM
- Vrat Day: Sunday (A Pradosh Vrat falling on a Sunday is specifically known as 'Bhanu Pradosh Vrat')
Religious Significance of Pradosh Vrat
The name Pradosh Vrat is derived from 'Pra-dosh,' meaning "remover of doshas" (faults or defects). This vrat is believed to not only alleviate physical and mental ailments but also atone for karmic sins. Scriptures state that Lord Shiva is particularly pleased with his devotees during the Pradosh Kaal, and the puja performed during this time yields swift results.
Puranas (ancient Hindu scriptures) describe Lord Shiva dancing on Mount Kailash during this period, while the Devas (gods) offer him worship. Devotees who sincerely perform worship during this time are believed to attain wealth, longevity, health, and liberation (moksha).
Pradosh Vrat Katha (Story)
According to mythological accounts, during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), the potent poison, Halahal, emerged, threatening the entire creation. All the Devas sought refuge in Lord Shiva. Out of compassion, Lord Shiva consumed the deadly poison to save the world. The poison turned his throat blue, hence he is known as 'Neelkanth'.
This event transpired during the Pradosh Kaal on the Trayodashi tithi. Since then, this time has been considered extremely auspicious and ideal for worshipping Shiva. Observing this vrat is believed to protect an individual from calamities, diseases, and enemy influences, bringing stability to life.
Pradosh Vrat Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
The Pradosh Vrat puja is simple yet meaningful. Let's understand the complete process:
- Wake up early in the morning, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Make a resolve to observe the fast and refrain from eating throughout the day. Fruitarian diet is acceptable.
- Meditate on Lord Shiva throughout the day and chant Shiva mantras.
- In the evening (during Pradosh Kaal), establish a Shiva Lingam or an image of Lord Shiva and Parvati at a puja place, either in a temple or at home.
- Bathe the deity with Ganga water, milk, yogurt, honey, and ghee.
- Offer Belpatra (bilva leaves), bhasma (sacred ash), dhatura (thorn apple), bhang (cannabis), Shami Patra (prosopis cineraria leaves), white sandalwood, akshat (unbroken rice grains), flowers, a lamp, and sweets.
- Chant the 'Om Namah Shivaya' mantra 108 times.
- Recite Shiva Chalisa, Pradosh Vrat Katha, and Mahamrityunjaya Mantra.
- Finally, perform the aarti (prayer with waving a lamp) and pray to Lord Shiva to remove all sorrow, disease, and obstacles.
Benefits and Results of Pradosh Vrat (Phal aur Labh)
- Relief from diseases and mental worries.
- Creates an atmosphere of happiness, prosperity, and well-being in the home and family.
- Resolves issues related to children, marriage, and employment.
- Fulfillment of desires through Shiva's grace.
- Paves the way for attaining moksha (liberation).
Special Significance of Bhanu Pradosh Vrat
This year, the Pradosh Vrat falls on a Sunday, a day dedicated to Surya Dev (Sun God). Therefore, it is called Bhanu Pradosh Vrat. It is believed that observing the fast and worshipping Lord Shiva on this day alleviates eye problems, skin diseases, and mental weakness. Observing Bhanu Pradosh Vrat earns the blessings of both Surya Dev and Lord Shiva, enhancing vitality, health, and self-confidence.
This final Pradosh Vrat of the Ashadha month is a divine opportunity to receive Lord Shiva's blessings. This vrat, falling on June 23rd, provides devotees with spiritual energy, inner purification, and positive thinking. If you are struggling with life's complexities, stress, financial problems, or health issues, perform Shiva puja with devotion and regularity on this day.
