Pradosh Vrat is considered highly auspicious and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to the Hindu Panchang, this vrat falls on the Trayodashi tithi (13th day) of both the waxing and waning phases of the moon each month. This year, Pradosh Vrat is being observed on March 11. This day is considered extremely favorable for worshipping Lord Shiva, and devotees of Lord Shiva are encouraged to observe this vrat.
For those observing the vrat, it is important to recite the Pradosh Vrat Katha (story), which is as follows:
The Story of Falgun Pradosh Vrat
Once, in the village of Ambapur, there lived a Brahmani who had lost her husband and was living a life of poverty, begging for alms. One day, while returning after begging for food, she found two young children who were abandoned and alone. Seeing them in distress, she felt a deep concern for their welfare. She wondered who their parents were and decided to take them home.
As time passed, the children grew older. One day, the Brahmani took them to Sage Shandilya to seek information about their parents. After offering her respects to the sage, she asked about the children’s lineage.
Sage Shandilya replied, “O Goddess! These children are the princes of Vidarbha. Their kingdom was usurped by King Gandarbha, and they were dethroned from their royal position.” Hearing this, the Brahmani requested the sage to provide a remedy that could restore the children’s kingdom. The sage advised her to observe the Pradosh Vrat for the well-being of the children.
Following the sage’s advice, the Brahmani and the two princes faithfully observed the Pradosh Vrat. In the meantime, the eldest prince of Vidarbha met Anshumati, and they decided to marry. Upon learning of this, Anshumati’s father joined forces with the princes to fight against King Gandarbha. With the help of Anshumati’s father, the princes emerged victorious in the battle, and they regained their lost kingdom.
In gratitude, the princes honored the Brahmani by giving her a prominent position in the royal court, which lifted her from poverty. She continued to immerse herself in devotion to Lord Shiva.
