All you need to know about Pradosh Vrat and foods you can eat in this fast

What is Pradosh?

Pradosh is a Hindu festival associated with the deity, Shiva. Hindu mythology says that during this time, Shiva and Parvati grant the wishes of their devotees. Pradosh is generally observed on the 13th Tithi, which begins from Amavasya (new moon) and Poornima (full moon). On this occasion, devotees observe a vrat called Pradosh vrat, which is believed to be very powerful.

 

Pradosh is dedicated to Shiva and his consort, Parvati. Pradosh rituals begin at twilight (sandhya kala) on the Trayodashi of the lunar fortnights of Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha (waning moon). To express their piety and devotion to the deities, devotees observe fast or vrat and perform certain rituals to invoke their blessings.

 

 The celebration begins at twilight, an hour before sunset. Devotees have a bath and then begin the vrat. After the rituals, the Shiva Parvati Katha is recited, and Shiva mantras will be chanted by the devotees. Chanting these mantras, it is believed, helps one to attain wish-fulfillment and moksha. On this day, Shiva and Parvati are in a very good mood, according to mythology.

 

The Story of Pradosh

 There are several accounts about the origin of Pradosh. The most well-known among them is about Samudra Manthan or the churning of the Milky Ocean for Amrit, the nectar of immortality. The story goes that the snake Vasuki was used as the churning rope. During the churning, a very dangerous poison called Halahala, which had the power to destroy the world, emerged from the ocean. The gods were filled with fear and ran to Shiva, asking him to save the universe.

 

 Shiva agreed to drink the poison and protect the universe from destruction. This day is celebrated as Pradosh. The poison stayed in his throat and turned his skin blue. Thus, Shiva is also known as Neelkanth. When he emerged from his stupor, he danced the tandava on his mount, the bull called Nandi.

 

Pradosh came to be celebrated as the day when Shiva was in his most benevolent mood and saved the world from extinction.

 

Fasting Rules

  

The Pradosh Vrat begins in the morning, at sunrise, and the fast is broken only the next morning. Devotees remain awake during the entire night, meditating on Shiva or chanting Shiva mantras. 

Some fast only from sunrise to sunset. At sunset, they pray at Shiva temples. During the night, several rituals are performed.

On Pradosham day, the devotee has to take a bath before sunset. They should also donate utensils.

 

 Foods to eat on Pradosh

 

Devotees usually do not take any food during the vrat, but those who do, follow a restricted and light diet. Some of the foods that are consumed are:

 

 Vrat Tikki: This is made from sama rice, potatoes, green chillies, salt, red chilli powder, and oil. Easy to make, it’s a delicious snack.

 

Kuttu Puri: Made of buckwheat flour, this puri can be eaten with any type of side dish and is quite mouth-watering. 

 

 Sweet Potato Chips: Seasoned with cardamom powder and sugar, these chips can be eaten throughout the day. They are both filling and delicious.

 

 Fruit Salad: Made using a variety of fruits, this is light on the stomach and has all the essential nutrients.

 

Mango Juice: During the summer season, mango juice is the perfect drink to have during a fast as they are filling and keep you hydrated.