Today is Shukra Pradosh Vrat: Worship Lord Shiva for Blessings of Children — Know the Auspicious Timings, 
Rituals, and Remedies
The auspicious Shukla Trayodashi Tithi of the Vaishakh month falls today, Friday, May 9, 2025, making it a significant occasion for observing the Shukra Pradosh Vrat. According to Hindu beliefs, this fast is highly beneficial, especially for those desiring to have children. It is said that by worshipping Lord Shiva with devotion on this day, one can be blessed with offspring.
Trayodashi Tithi Timing:
This tithi begins on May 9 at 2:56 PM and ends on May 10 at 5:29 PM. The ideal time for performing the Pradosh Puja is during the evening twilight hours, known as Godhuli Bela.
Puja Rituals:
- Begin your day with a bath and wear clean clothes.
- Set up a sacred space at home or visit a Shiva temple for the puja.
- If you’re fasting, take a vow (sankalp) with holy water, flowers, and rice grains (akshat) in hand.
- In the evening, light a diya (lamp) in your home temple during twilight.
- Perform abhishek (ritual bathing) of the Shiva Lingam with pure water or Ganga Jal.
- Offer belpatra, flowers, and other sacred items to Lord Shiva and His family.
- Listen to the Shukra Pradosh Vrat Katha (the traditional story associated with the fast).
- Conclude with an aarti using a ghee lamp and chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” with devotion.
- End the puja by seeking forgiveness for any mistakes made during the ritual.
Sacred Offerings for Lord Shiva:
To receive Lord Shiva’s divine grace on Shukra Pradosh, it is auspicious to offer the following items on the Shivling:
- Pure ghee
- Curd
- Fresh flowers
- Fruits
- Rice grains (Akshat)
- Belpatra (Bilva leaves)
- Datura (thorn apple)
- Bhang (hemp leaves)
- Honey
- Ganga Jal
- White sandalwood paste
- Black sesame seeds
- Raw milk
- Green moong dal
- Shami leaves
Worshipping Lord Shiva with sincerity and devotion on this day not only fulfills the desire for children but also helps in overcoming life’s difficulties and brings peace to the mind.