Pradosh Vrat holds great significance in Hinduism and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. This sacred fast is observed on the Trayodashi Tithi of both the Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha every month. The period around sunset and early night, known as Pradosh Kaal, is considered highly auspicious for performing special prayers.
When Pradosh Vrat falls on a Saturday, it is known as Shani Pradosh Vrat. On this day, devotees seek the blessings of both Lord Shiva and Lord Shani (Saturn). Let us know when the first Shani Pradosh Vrat of 2026 will be observed and the correct method of worship.
When is the First Shani Pradosh Vrat in 2026?
According to the Hindu Panchang, the Krishna Paksha Trayodashi of the month of Phalguna will begin on
February 14, 2026 (Saturday) at 4:02 PM
and will end on
February 15, 2026 (Sunday) at 5:05 PM.
As per the Udaya Tithi rule, Shani Pradosh Vrat will be observed on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Since the fast falls on a Saturday, it holds special importance for devotees of Lord Shani.
Shani Pradosh Vrat Puja Method
- Devotees observing the fast should wake up early, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Set up a clean altar with a wooden platform and place idols or images of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Sprinkle Gangajal and perform Abhishek of the Shivling using milk, curd, honey, and holy water.
- Offer Bel leaves, flowers, sandalwood, incense, lamps, and Naivedya to Lord Shiva.
- Offer adornment items to Goddess Parvati.
- The ideal time for Pradosh Puja is between 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM.
- Perform Shiva Puja again during sunset while wearing white clothes.
- Worship Lord Shani on this day along with Lord Shiva.
- Offer water to the Peepal tree and recite Shani Stotra or Shani Chalisa.
- Chant “Om Namah Shivaya” or the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra in the evening.
How to Please Lord Shani on Shani Pradosh Vrat
- Light a mustard oil lamp under a Peepal tree.
- Offer mustard oil at a Shani temple.
- Donate black sesame seeds, blankets, or iron items to the needy.
- Worship Lord Hanuman along with Lord Shiva and recite the Hanuman Chalisa.
Benefits of Shani Pradosh Vrat
Shani Pradosh Vrat is associated with the blessings of both Lord Shiva and Lord Shani, making its spiritual rewards manifold. Observing this fast is believed to:
- Grant progeny-related blessings.
- Improve health and remove long-standing ailments.
- Bring peace, prosperity, and stability in life.
- Reduce the negative effects of Rahu, Ketu, and Kaal Sarp Dosha.
- Remove obstacles and guide the devotee toward spiritual liberation (Moksha).