When and how to observe the second Friday Pradosh Vrat of January 2026 for special Shiva grace

The Pradosh Vrat of January 2026 that falls on the Krishna Paksha Trayodashi of Magha month brings a spiritual evening that offers a beautiful opportunity to balance mind, home and planetary influences. The devotee who observes this Pradosh Vrat gradually becomes free from many troubles of life through the grace of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and begins to experience a deep inner peace.

Exact date and Pradosh period of the second Pradosh Vrat of January 2026

The Krishna Paksha Trayodashi tithi of Magha month will start on the night of 15 January 2026 at 8:16 and will end on the night of 16 January 2026 at 10:21. This tithi span becomes the base for the entire fast, however the main time of worship is considered to be the Pradosh period, when the special twilight period remains between sunset and deep night. This time due to the spread of Trayodashi tithi the Pradosh Vrat will be observed on Friday 16 January 2026 which will be specially called Shukra Pradosh Vrat.

The Pradosh period is generally considered to be within about 2 hours from sunset, therefore on 16 January it is considered more auspicious to perform the main worship of Lord Shiva in the Pradosh period according to the sunset time of one’s city. Those who can perform the worship only after sunset should bathe, purify themselves and definitely perform Shiva worship with lamp, water and bilva leaves during the Pradosh period.

What is the significance of Shukra Pradosh Vrat

The Pradosh Vrat that falls on Friday is considered highly auspicious in itself. When this Vrat comes on the Trayodashi of Krishna Paksha of Magha month it is considered very useful for balance in family life, married life and material comforts. According to tradition on this day worship of Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvati gradually reduces tension in married life and brings sweetness in mutual dialogue.

For the practitioners who observe Shukra Pradosh Vrat regularly it is said that there is a strong possibility of growth in economic stability, respect and social prestige. For those whose horoscope has defects related to Venus or Moon this Vrat can also be considered as a calming remedy provided that it is observed with devotion and purity.

Mythological context of Pradosh Vrat

There are extensive mentions of the significance of Pradosh Vrat in various Puranas. It is believed that on the Trayodashi tithi during evening Devadidev Mahadev casts his special graceful glance on the world from Kailash. According to a famous reference when the poison Halahala appeared at the time of the churning of the ocean both the gods and the demons were in crisis. Then Shiva held that poison in his throat and protected all the worlds as Nilakantha.

Remembering this energy of compassion, sacrifice and protection, Shiva is worshipped in the Pradosh period. When Shukra Pradosh occurs on the Trayodashi of Magha month then its indication of gentleness, love and dedication is considered even more powerful. It is believed that through this Vrat sins do not only diminish but gratitude and patience also increase within the practitioner.

Brief calendar of the second Pradosh Vrat of January 2026

The table below helps to understand the tithi and timing of this special Vrat in a simple form.

Detail	Information
Month	Magha month, Krishna Paksha
Start of tithi	15 January 2026, 8:16 at night
End of tithi	16 January 2026, 10:21 at night
Date of observing the Vrat	16 January 2026, Friday
Type of Vrat	Shukra Pradosh Vrat
Main worship time	Pradosh period on the evening of 16 January

How to observe Pradosh Vrat

The essential feeling of Pradosh Vrat is to make body and mind a little more disciplined and pure than usual. Therefore the entire day should be kept as simple, sattvic and restrained as possible.

• Wake up early in the morning on the day of the fast and clean the body properly.
• If possible mix a few drops of Ganga water or water of any holy river in the bath.
• Wear clean, light coloured and pure clothes.
• In front of Lord Shiva resolve silently that this Vrat is being observed to reduce life’s faults, difficulties and mental stress.
• Try to save oneself from anger, argument and harsh speech throughout the day.

Those who can remain without food spend the day only on water, fruits and light fasting foods permitted in their tradition. If complete fasting is not possible due to health or lifestyle then one may take a single meal of sattvic food however it is better to avoid fried food or overly spicy dishes.

What should be eaten during Pradosh Vrat

The form of food during fasting is also considered part of the spiritual practice. Many people take only fruits, milk, curd or dry fruits throughout the day. Those who take grains as food can also make the Vrat more effective by keeping some points in mind.

• Take light food like fruits, roasted peanuts, lotus seeds or fasting friendly khichdi during the day.
• Use rock salt instead of common salt if possible.
• If it is necessary to eat grains at night then take khichdi, plain porridge or chapati with mildly spiced vegetables.
• Stay away from any intoxicant like alcohol, tobacco or highly stimulating beverages.

Through such moderation the body feels light and the mind becomes more focused at the time of worship. Gradually this practice can also bring stability and patience into the nature of the practitioner.

Procedure of worship in Pradosh Vrat

Special care is required on the procedural side of Shiva worship because along with feelings some simple rules are also associated. Before performing worship in the Pradosh period it is considered good to wash hands and feet again or take a brief bath to refresh oneself.

• Clean the place of worship beforehand and spread a clean seat on the floor.
• Sit on a wooden seat or one covered with clean cloth and light a lamp.
• Install a Shivlinga or an idol of Shiva family facing north or east.
• Fill a pot with clean water and mix a little Ganga water in it.
• Perform abhisheka with water, milk or Panchamrita according to capacity.
• After abhisheka bathe the Shivlinga with clean water and wipe with a dry clean cloth.
• Then offer bilva leaves, dhatura, flowers, sandalwood, unbroken rice and incense.

During the worship it is considered extremely auspicious to chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya”. Those who can give more time may recite this mantra at least 108 times or as per their convenience. In the end perform Aarti and pray to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for health, peace and progress of the entire family along with personal wishes.

Is Shukra Pradosh Vrat especially for married life

In astrology Friday is associated with the planet Venus which is considered a significator of love, beauty, marital happiness and material comforts. When Pradosh Vrat coincides with this day the combined worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati is believed to gradually simplify many complexities of married life.

Couples who are passing through phases of distance, lack of communication or mistrust may if they worship Shiva family together on this day experience strengthening of understanding and compassion between them. This Vrat can be considered useful not only for those who are unmarried but also for couples married for a long time who wish to bring new balance and dignity into their relationship.

Astrological beliefs associated with Pradosh Vrat

From the perspective of astrology Pradosh Vrat is not only a religious ritual but can also be considered a type of planetary pacification remedy. This Shukra Pradosh of Magha month can be particularly helpful for those whose horoscope has some inauspicious situation related to Venus, Moon or the seventh house.

• Unmarried youths may observe this Vrat to strengthen the combinations for a good match.
• There has been a tradition to observe this Vrat with devotion when there are recurring obstacles in marriage.
• In case of unnecessary quarrels or conflict in married life this Vrat is said to help in increasing mental peace and patience.
• In situations of financial instability or lack of control over expenses Pradosh Vrat has also been adopted as a helpful remedy.

If this Vrat is observed not with expectations of a sudden miracle but as a practice of inner discipline, moderation and devotion then its effects start appearing subtly in many areas of life.

Can everyone observe Pradosh Vrat

Generally Pradosh Vrat is considered equally beneficial for both men and women. Married, unmarried, householders, employees and business persons all can adopt this Vrat according to their convenience. If for some reason it is not possible to fast the whole day one should still perform Shiva worship during Pradosh period with devotion.

• Those who have health related issues or must take medicines on time should avoid severe fasting.
• For pregnant women it is safer to take light sattvic food instead of making diet extremely rigid.
• Even if elderly people cannot fast they can gain benefit through chanting the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” and a simple worship method.

The main thing is that the Vrat should be free from any kind of show, simple and filled with devotion. If the rule of Vrat is made keeping the real circumstances of life in view then it can be observed easily for years.

What should not be done during Pradosh Vrat

The completeness of a Vrat is associated not only with worship procedures but also with behaviour throughout the day. Therefore it is considered best to stay away from some actions on the day of Pradosh Vrat.

• Avoid unnecessary quarrels, harsh speech and insulting anyone.
• Stay away from lies, deceit or attempts for any kind of unfair gain.
• It is better to completely give up intoxication, non vegetarian food and very spicy food for that day.
• During the Pradosh period do not waste time on mobile, television or useless discussions as far as possible but engage in devotional songs, mantra chanting or quiet contemplation.

Through these small restraints the mind gradually becomes purer which increases success not only in Pradosh Vrat but also in other spiritual practices.

Is observing Pradosh Vrat once sufficient

Many people ask whether everything will change in life by observing Pradosh Vrat only once. Tradition tells that the real effect of spiritual practice comes from continuity not from efforts of a single day. Therefore those who wish to experience Shiva’s grace in a stable way in their life take a resolve to observe Pradosh Vrat regularly throughout the year or for a fixed period.

Even then if it is not possible to observe the Vrat throughout the year for some reason, it is considered highly auspicious if this Shukra Pradosh of Magha month is observed with heartfelt devotion. The prayers, charity and restrained lifestyle of this day can give a positive direction for the times ahead.

Benefits of observing Pradosh Vrat with family

When the entire family observes Pradosh Vrat together its benefits appear not only at individual level but also at collective level. Simplicity in food, sweetness in speech and an atmosphere of peace in home become particularly evident that day.

• Family members can sit together in a friendly environment and listen to stories of Shiva or incidents related to his divine acts.
• Children can also be explained in simple language that Vrat is not only the name of remaining hungry but a practice of self control and increased empathy for others.
• If husband and wife together worship Shiva family the feeling of mutual trust and support becomes stronger.

In this way Pradosh Vrat gradually ceases to be just a religious ritual and begins to become part of lifestyle which can also balance the values of the entire family.

Is charity also necessary with Pradosh Vrat

In scriptures Vrat, chanting and charity are considered threefold spiritual practices. In the context of Pradosh Vrat too it is understood that if there is capacity one should certainly donate food, clothes or some useful article to a needy person that day according to capacity.

• One may contribute to a local temple, cow shelter or ashram.
• Arrangements for food can be made for some needy family.
• Small acts of charity like giving fruits, biscuits or water to street workers or labourers can also be done.

The fundamental feeling behind all of this is that the grace of Lord Shiva should be prayed not only for oneself but also for weaker sections of society. When the feeling of charity and service is added to the Vrat its spiritual energy works even more deeply.

How to make this Shukra Pradosh of Magha month special

Magha month itself is considered important for austerity, spiritual practice and spiritual progress. When Shukra Pradosh Vrat comes in this month it can become a good opportunity to clarify the spiritual goal of the entire month.

• Starting from this day one may take a resolve to follow some fixed rule throughout Magha month like sleeping early, waking early or chanting a fixed number of “Om Namah Shivaya” mantras daily.
• If there is time one may go to a Shiva temple on the day of Pradosh Vrat and participate in abhisheka and Aarti.
• At home also one may build the habit of lighting a lamp at least once a day and remembering Lord Shiva with a calm mind.

Such small resolutions help in bringing mental clarity, emotional balance and ease in relationships in the coming months.

Key points about the second Pradosh Vrat of January 2026

If this entire topic is to be understood in a simple way in the end then some important points are worth remembering.

Key point	Essence
Date of Vrat	16 January 2026, Friday
Span of tithi	15 January 8:16 at night to 16 January 10:21 at night
Nature of Vrat	Shukra Pradosh, Magha Krishna Trayodashi
Principal deities of worship	Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati
Main benefit indications	Balance in married life, mental peace, restraint

The practitioner who observes Vrat with devotion on this day and worships Shiva in the Pradosh period will definitely see the direction of positive change begin to form in life even if that change appears gradually and quietly.

Frequently asked questions

On which day will the second Pradosh Vrat of January 2026 be observed

The second Pradosh Vrat of January 2026 will be observed on Friday 16 January 2026 according to the Krishna Paksha Trayodashi of Magha month.

This time the tithi is spread over two days so on which day will the Vrat be valid

The Trayodashi tithi remains from the night of 15 January to the night of 16 January but the combination of Pradosh period and Friday occurs on 16 January therefore the Vrat will be observed on that day.

How is Shukra Pradosh Vrat considered useful for married life

Friday is considered the significator of planet Venus and marital happiness therefore the combined worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on this day is understood to enhance sweetness, communication and respect in relationships.

Can benefit be gained even if complete fasting is not possible on the day of Pradosh Vrat

If complete fasting is not possible due to health or circumstances one may still observe the Vrat by taking a single sattvic meal and performing Shiva worship with devotion during the Pradosh period and this also provides spiritual benefit.

Which mantra is considered the simplest and most effective in Pradosh Vrat

The mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” is considered the simplest and most effective in Pradosh Vrat which any practitioner can chant during the Pradosh period in a fixed number according to convenience.