Pradosh Vrat 2023: Check fast timing, puja tithi, rituals and other details

Pradosh Vrat 2023: Pradosha or Pradosham is the occasion on the thirteenth day of every fortnight in the Hindu calendar. The word 'Pradosh' is derived from 'Pradosham' meaning the 'removal of sins' or 'removal of darkness.' Pradosh vrat is observed two times a month. Pradosh Kaal timings usually lie in 'Sandhyakal' that is in the evening twilight. It is believed that observing Pradosh vrat or donating two cows helps you reap the same reward. 

Pradosh Vrat time

Pradosh Vrat June 2023 Date: June 15, Thursday.

Tithi Start: 15 June, 2023 08:32 AM.

Tithi End: 16 June, 2023 08:40 AM.

Pradosha Puja Time: June 15, 07:09 PM – June 15, 09:16 PM.

 Pradosh Vrat: Rituals

Observe fast: Devotees observe fast from sunrise to sunset on the day of Pradosh Vrat. 

Puja preparations: Devotees clean their homes and take a bath to purify themselves. They wear clean clothes and adorn the puja area with flowers, incense, and other traditional items.

Puja rituals: The main puja is performed during the twilight period, known as Pradosh Kaal, which occurs approximately one and a half hours before sunset. Devotees light a lamp and offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. They chant sacred mantras, such as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra or the Shiva Panchakshari Mantra, while meditating on Lord Shiva’s divine form.

Abhishekam: An important aspect of the Pradosh Vrat is the Abhishek of Lord Shiva’s idol or lingam with holy substances like water, milk, honey, and sandalwood paste. The Abhishek signifies purification and the washing away of sins.

The offering of Prasad: Devotees offer fruits, flowers, betel leaves, and other favourite delicacies of Lord Shiva as a form of Prasad. 

Recitation of sacred texts: Some devotees also engage in the recitation of sacred texts, such as the Shiva Purana, Rudram, or other hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

Observance at temples: Many devotees visit Shiva temples during Pradosh Vrat and participate in prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The atmosphere is filled with devotion, bhajans (devotional songs), and spiritual discourses.

Breaking the fast: The fast is usually broken after the completion of the puja and prayers. Devotees consume a meal that includes fruits, milk, and other sattvic (pure) foods.