Pradosham Significance & Spiritual Meaning
Pradosham is observed on Trayodashi (13th day) of both Shukla and Krishna fortnights. The period just after sunset is called Pradosh. Lord Shiva is worshipped for health, wealth, and fulfilment of wishes.
Pradosham Mythology & Legend
According to the Shiva Purana, the devas and asuras churned the ocean and received the poison (halahala). Shiva drank it to save the world. Pradosh is the time when Shiva is believed to be most pleased. Observing the vrat is said to grant boons.
Pradosham Puja Rituals & Vidhi
- Observe a full-day or partial fast; break after the Pradosh puja.
- During Pradosh (twilight), offer milk, bilva leaves, and flowers to Shiva.
- Chant Om Namah Shivaya and Shiva mantras; perform abhishekam if possible.
- Listen to or recite the Pradosh Vrat katha; offer prasad.
Pradosham Mantras in Sanskrit
ॐ नमः शिवाय
oṃ namaḥ śivāya
Salutations to Shiva
Pradosham Traditional Foods & Prasad
- ●Fruits
- ●Milk
- ●Light sattvic meal after puja
Pradosham Regional Celebrations across India
North India(प्रदोष व्रत)
Monthly Trayodashi vrat
South India(பிரதோஷம்)
Pradosham in Shiva temples
Pradosham Do's & Don't's
Do's
- ✓Observe fast
- ✓Worship Shiva during Pradosh
- ✓Offer bilva
- ✓Chant mantras
Don'ts
- ✗Do not miss the Pradosh time
- ✗Avoid non-veg and alcohol
- ✗Do not disrespect Shiva
Pradosham — Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Pradosham?
- Pradosham is observed on Trayodashi (13th day) of both Shukla and Krishna fortnights.
- When is Pradosham 2026?
- In 2026, Pradosham falls on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.
- What are the Pradosham puja rituals?
- Observe a full-day or partial fast; break after the Pradosh puja.; During Pradosh (twilight), offer milk, bilva leaves, and flowers to Shiva.; Chant Om Namah Shivaya and Shiva mantras; perform abhishekam if possible.; Listen to or recite the Pradosh Vrat katha; offer prasad.
- What to eat on Pradosham?
- Fruits, Milk, Light sattvic meal after puja
- What should you do on Pradosham?
- Observe fast; Worship Shiva during Pradosh; Offer bilva
- What should you avoid on Pradosham?
- Do not miss the Pradosh time; Avoid non-veg and alcohol; Do not disrespect Shiva
- Which deity is worshipped on Pradosham?
- Pradosham is dedicated to Shiva.
Upcoming Pradosham Dates in 2026, 2027 & Beyond
Pradosham is a sacred Hindu festival observed on the tithi shown. Dates are calculated from the Panchang for your region.
Times shown for New Delhi, India (IST)
| Date | Day | Moonrise Time | Special Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Mar 2026 | Tuesday | 05:21 am | — |
| 31 Mar 2026 | Tuesday | 05:09 pm | — |
| 15 Apr 2026 | Wednesday | 04:20 am | — |
| 29 Apr 2026 | Wednesday | 04:55 pm | — |
| 15 May 2026 | Friday | 03:55 am | — |
| 29 May 2026 | Friday | 05:39 pm | — |
| 13 Jun 2026 | Saturday | 03:10 am | — |
| 27 Jun 2026 | Saturday | 05:26 pm | — |
| 12 Jul 2026 | Sunday | 02:44 am | — |
| 27 Jul 2026 | Monday | 05:55 pm | — |
| 26 Aug 2026 | Wednesday | 05:50 pm | — |
| 9 Sept 2026 | Wednesday | 03:53 am | — |
| 24 Sept 2026 | Thursday | 04:53 pm | — |
| 8 Oct 2026 | Thursday | 03:49 am | — |
| 24 Oct 2026 | Saturday | 04:22 pm | — |