By Pt. Abhishek Sharma
Guru Pradosh Auspicious Timing, Rituals and Benefits in One Place

The first day of 2026 holds special significance for Shiva devotees. It begins with Pradosh Vrat falling on a Thursday. Worship of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati in this rare combination removes all sufferings. This vrat at the start of the new year bestows auspicious results. Devotees receive the blessing of fulfillment of wishes.
According to the Vedic Panchang, the first Pradosh Vrat of 2026 is on January 1, Thursday. Trayodashi tithi begins at 1:47 AM and ends at 10:22 PM. Pradosh Kaal is from 5:35 PM to 8:19 PM. Worship during this time is highly fruitful. Scriptures describe this period as the best for Shiva puja.
This combination is special because Thursday is Lord Vishnu's day. Pradosh Vrat is dedicated to Shiva. The yoga forms for obtaining grace from both deities together.
Guru Pradosh is rare. According to scriptures, this vrat destroys enemies. The person attains knowledge and good fortune. On the first day of the new year, this combination gives double rewards. Several auspicious yogas will be effective on this day. For Shiva devotees, it is an opportunity to infuse new energy into life.
It is believed that Shiva worship on Pradosh Vrat destroys sins. Devotees attain happiness and prosperity. Guru Pradosh particularly grants wisdom and discernment. This vrat proves helpful in removing obstacles from life.
Reciting the Pradosh Vrat story also holds special importance. Once Lord Shiva told the gods that worship during Pradosh Kaal fulfills all wishes. Recitation of this story completes the vrat.
Perform Pradosh Vrat puja simply but according to the method. Wake up in Brahma Muhurta in the morning and bathe. Wear clean clothes and take the vow of the vrat. Bathe again before sunset or wash hands and feet.
| Material | Usage |
|---|---|
| Milk, curd, ghee, honey, Ganga jal | For abhishek |
| Bilva leaves, dhatura, akshat, white flowers | For offering |
| Shivling or Shiva idol | For main worship |
| Incense, lamp, camphor | For aarti |
During Pradosh Kaal, perform abhishek of the Shivling. Bathe it with milk, curd, ghee, honey and Ganga jal. Offer bilva leaves, dhatura, akshat and white flowers. Chant the Om Namah Shivaya mantra. The number of chants should be 108 for best results.
Recite Shiva Chalisa and Pradosh Vrat Katha. Conclude with aarti. Pray for forgiveness for any mistakes in the puja. Break the vrat on the next day during Dwadashi or Chaturdashi.
Devotees receive numerous benefits from this vrat. Sufferings are removed. Marital life brings happiness. Economic prosperity is attained. Especially, Guru Pradosh brings progress in career. Scriptures call it a moksha-granting vrat. Regular Pradosh Vrat brings stability in life.
Wish for auspicious results throughout the year from the first Pradosh Vrat of the new year. Devotees embrace it as an opportunity.
When is the first Pradosh Vrat of 2026?
On January 1, 2026, Thursday. Trayodashi from 1:47 AM to 10:22 PM.
What is Pradosh Kaal?
From 5:35 PM to 8:19 PM. Shiva puja is best during this time.
What are the benefits of Guru Pradosh Vrat?
Destruction of enemies, attainment of knowledge and good fortune. Double rewards are obtained.
What to offer in Pradosh Vrat puja?
Abhishek with milk, curd, ghee, honey, Ganga jal. Bilva leaves, dhatura, white flowers.
When to break the vrat?
Paran on the next day during Dwadashi or Chaturdashi.
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