ओम् नमः शिवाय, हर हर महादेव, indulge in the auspicious energy of Lord Shiva by observing the Pradosh Vrat. Yes, the day comes on the 13th day of the lunar fortnight, both in the waxing phase and the waning phases of the moon.
The fast has a deep significance in the Samudra Manthan's story because during this cosmic event, Shiv Ji held poison in his throat to save the world and it was Pradosh time, which is the 13th day of the lunar night. It’s because of this reason that Pradosh Vrat is kept in this phase of time.
Now, we will dwell on how a Pradosh Vrat must be observed. In other words, common mistakes to avoid while keeping this fast. So, let’s have a look:
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Not Knowing The Correct Time:
The exact puja timing is important to contemplate the fast rightly. Such as the right time is from sunset to about one and a half hours after.
Not knowing or ignoring the right timing for rituals can reduce the effectiveness of Vrat. Ensure that you begin the prayers during the Pradosh time, which is at sunset.
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Eating Heavy Food:
Heavy food should not be eaten on this day; instead, Satvik food should be consumed. Eating stuff like fruits, nuts, milk, and yogurt must be chosen, not spicy, processed, or non-vegetarian, because these always disturb the spiritual purity of the person who is observing the vrat.
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Not Remaining Physically or Mentally Unprepared:
For observing fast, it’s very important to keep the intentions strong. Keeping the vrat without strengthening the intent makes your vrat experience unfulfilled.
Wear Rudraksha Rudrani Mala with silver capping to upkeep the intent for the vrat. This magical mala will truly help you surrender your fasting intentions to Lord Shiva.
Always prepare yourself spiritually before starting the vrat and cleanse your mind with meditation, worship, and prayers so that you feel positive and deeply connected with the divine.
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Not Cleaning the Altar Space:
It’s important to properly cleanse your home’s altar space before embarking on your vrat puja practice. A cluttered place won’t create the right positive environment for doing puja or chanting mantras.
Only when you clean the space entirely and then light diya will you be better acquainted with the pure aroma and divine energy of Lord Shiva.
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Overexerting Yourself:
If it’s fast, it doesn’t mean that you will have to bear the pressure of the fasting period. Observe the past with inner happiness, like you are getting a chance to meet your beloved divine Shiva. You will feel enthralled keeping this kind of mindset while keeping vrat.
Take frequent breaks, rest in between, and don’t forget to meditate or indulge in light activities to feel refreshed all day.
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Not Presenting Offerings:
While it’s not mandatory to present all offerings, it’s good if you stick to the entire ritual process. Ensure that you offer fresh flowers, incense, sweets, light diya, and chant mantras like ओम् नमः शिवाय, which are the key parts of the process. These rituals will help you feel a spiritual connection and invite the blessings of Lord Shiva.
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Not Including Family Members or Loved Ones:
Some people consider Pradosh Vrat as an individual practice, while it is a tradition that should be performed with the love of family or dear ones. It’s in this way that the unity and bonds can be nurtured in the household and God himself also gets pleased with such a kind of devotion.
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Breaking The Fast Before The Right Time:
Some people also break the fast early, which is a big mistake. One should always wait for the right time to contemplate or end up fast. Typically, the fast is considered over when the Pradosh Time is passed and also when you do the final prayers.
Break the fast by eating light stuff, such as fruits, milk, vegetarian or Satvic food.
Final Notes
So, observing the Pradosh Vrat is a sacred practice during this time Fill your mind with positivity and humility. Avoid the common mistakes described above so that you can invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva easily.
Remember, the key to observing the fast correctly lies in your internal devotion, faith, and pure intentions to attain the divine grace of Lord Shiva.
