The first Pradosh Vrat of February falls on a Sunday. When Pradosh Vrat occurs on a Sunday, it is known as Ravi Pradosh Vrat. This sacred fast is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to religious beliefs, observing the Ravi Pradosh Vrat brings prosperity and happiness in life. Even if you do not observe the fast, reading or listening to the Ravi Pradosh Katha (story) on this day is considered highly auspicious.
Ravi Pradosh Vrat Katha (Mythological Story)
According to an ancient legend, a Brahmani (widowed woman) lived in a town with her young son. She had no one to support her and survived by begging for food. Every morning, she would go out with her son to seek alms and sustain their livelihood.
One day, while returning home, she found a young boy lying injured and groaning in pain. Feeling compassion, she brought him home and took care of him. The boy was later revealed to be a prince of Vidarbha. His kingdom had been attacked by enemy forces, who had captured his father and seized the throne. Left helpless, the prince wandered from place to place to escape his enemies.
The prince started living with the Brahmani and her son. One day, a celestial maiden named Anshumati, a Gandharva princess, saw the prince and instantly fell in love with him. The next day, she introduced the prince to her parents, who were also impressed by him.
A few days later, Lord Shiva appeared in the dreams of Anshumati’s parents and commanded them to arrange the marriage of their daughter with the prince. Following the divine instructions, the marriage was performed with great devotion.
Meanwhile, the Brahmani was a devoted follower of Lord Shiva and observed Pradosh Vrat regularly. Due to the power of this fast and with the assistance of the Gandharva king’s army, the prince was able to defeat the enemies and reclaim his lost kingdom. His father was released, and they both lived happily again.
In gratitude, the prince appointed the Brahmani’s son as his prime minister. It is believed that just as the Brahmani’s Pradosh Vrat changed her fate, Lord Shiva blesses His devotees and transforms their lives through devotion and prayer.
Shiv Aarti (Hymn of Lord Shiva)
Jai Shiv Omkara, Om Jai Shiv Omkara
Brahma Vishnu Sadashiva, Ardhangaidhara॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Ekanaana Chaturanana Panchanana Raaje।
Hansaana Garudasana Vrishavahana Saaje॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Do Bhuj Chaturbhuj Das Bhuj Ati Sohe।
Trigun Roop Nirakhata Tribhuvan Jan Mohe॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Akshmala Vanmala Mundmala Dhaari।
Chandan Mrigmad Sohe Bhale Shashidhari॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Shvetambar Pitambar Baghamber Anage।
Sanakadik Garunadik Bhootadik Sange॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Kara Ke Madhya Kamandalu Chakra Trishul Dharta।
Jagkarta Jagbharta Jag Sanhar Karta॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Brahma Vishnu Sadashiva Jaanat Aviveka।
Pranavakshar Ke Madhye Ye Teenon Eka॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Kashi Mein Vishwanath Virajat Nandi Brahmachari।
Nit Uthi Bhog Lagavat Mahima Ati Bhaari॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Trigun Shivji Ki Aarti Jo Koi Nar Gave।
Kahat Shivanand Swami Manvanchhit Fal Pave॥ Om Jai Shiv…॥
Conclusion
Observing Ravi Pradosh Vrat with devotion and faith is believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and divine blessings from Lord Shiva. Even if one does not keep the fast, reciting or listening to the Ravi Pradosh Katha and performing Shiv Aarti can help in seeking the divine grace of Lord Shiva.