Soma Pradosh

An auspicious day dedicated to Lord Shiva, Pradosha occurs twice in a traditional Hindu month. Also known as Pradosha Vrata and Pradosham, this fast take place during the two phases of the moon (waxing and waning) on 13th day of both fortnights. A Pradosha occurring on a Monday is known as Som Pradosh or Soma Pradosha. Monday, also known as Somwar, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, hence, the name Som Pradosh. Observing a fast on a Monday is associated with offering prayers to the lord asking for a good and loyal husband. Also the vrat is believed to assist in attaining prosperity and a peaceful family life. Glance on further to know the significance of Soma Pradosha and how to observe it.

Significance Of Soma Pradosha
While Pradosha fasting are essentially connected with Lord Shiva, the day Monday is especially dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hence, a Pradosha falling on a Monday is considered to be very auspicious. The name Pradosh indicates the twilight period, that is, the period just before sunset and immediately after sunset. Generally, the twilight period is between 1.5 hours before sunset and 1 hour after sunset. During this period, the Hindu devotees believe that Lord Shiva and Parvati are at their best cheerful mood. Anyone asking for blessings and offerings are highly blessed by the couple during the Pradosham period.

Devotees, in large numbers, offer pujas and prayers to Lord Shiva in the temples. Those devotees staying back at home spend their day in chanting mantras devoted to the lord or reading the Shiva Purana. The fast begins at sunrise and ends in the evening after offering pujas by consuming the Prasad. Staunch devotees do not eat anything during the day and opt for water. Such devotees, though break their fast with the evening Prasad, but they only resume with eating proper food only in the next morning. Nevertheless, there are devotees who observe a partial vrat by consuming fruits and water. Such people recommence with eating cooked food after the evening prayers are completed.