New Delhi: Pradosh Vrat is regarded as one of the most sacred fasting observances dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in Hindu tradition. Devotees believe that observing Pradosh Vrat with devotion and proper rituals brings peace, prosperity, happiness, and spiritual blessings into life.
The vrat is observed twice every month on the Trayodashi Tithi during both Krishna Paksha and Shukla Paksha. Since the first Pradosh Vrat of May 2026 falls on a Thursday, it will be celebrated as Guru Pradosh Vrat, a day considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva.
When is the First Pradosh Vrat of May 2026?
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi will begin at 11:20 am on May 14, 2026, and conclude at 8:31 am on May 15, 2026. Therefore, devotees will observe Guru Pradosh Vrat on Thursday, May 14.
Religious beliefs suggest that observing Pradosh Vrat sincerely may help devotees attain prosperity, social respect, happiness, and victory over obstacles and enemies.
Auspicious Muhurat for Pradosh Vrat Puja
The puja for Pradosh Vrat is traditionally performed during Pradosh Kaal, the period around sunset considered extremely favorable for Lord Shiva worship.
On May 14, 2026, the auspicious puja muhurat will be from 7:50 pm to 9:17 pm, giving devotees nearly 2 hours and 12 minutes to perform the rituals.
Also read : Vat Savitri Vrat 2026: Date, Rituals and Complete Puja Samagri List Explained
According to traditional beliefs, worship performed during the exact muhurat is believed to provide maximum spiritual benefits. Devotees observing the fast should break their vrat only after 8:31 am on May 15, after the Trayodashi Tithi ends.
Pradosh Vrat Puja Samagri
Devotees generally use the following items during Pradosh Vrat worship rituals:
- Water
- Gangajal
- Raw milk
- Curd
- Honey
- Sugar
- White sandalwood
- Akshat
- Bel Patra
- Dhatura
- Bhang
- Shami leaves\
- Aak flowers
- White flowers
- Kalava
- Bhasma
- Pure ghee
- Cotton wicks
- Camphor
- Incense sticks and dhoop
- Fruits and sweets
How to Perform Pradosh Vrat Puja
Devotees observing Pradosh Vrat usually follow a disciplined spiritual routine throughout the day.
The rituals begin early in the morning with a bath and wearing clean clothes. After taking a formal vrat sankalp, devotees follow a satvik lifestyle and may observe a nirahar or fruit-based fast.
An idol or image of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is placed in the home temple. The Shivling is then bathed with water, Panchamrit, and pure water during the abhishek ritual.
Devotees offer sandalwood, bhasma, bel patra, flowers, incense, diya, fruits, and sweets to Lord Shiva while chanting Shiva mantras, Shiv Chalisa, and listening to the vrat katha. The puja concludes with Shiva Aarti performed using a ghee diya and camphor.