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New Delhi: Pradosh fast is considered very fruitful to please Lord Shiva. When this fast falls on a Sunday, it is called Ravi Pradosh Vrat. According to religious beliefs, worshiping Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati as per the rituals on this day during Pradosh period brings happiness, peace and prosperity in life. Listening to the story and reciting it during the fast also has special importance. A mythological story to Ravi Pradosh Vrat gives the message to the devotees that even the toughest times can be changed with true faith, patience and devotion to Lord Shiva.

Mythological story of Ravi Pradosh fast

According to the legend, a long time ago a poor Brahmin lived in a city with her son. The financial condition of the family was not good, so she used to support herself and her son by begging daily. One day he met a young man on the way. He was a prince, but his kingdom was captured by enemies and he was wandering from place to place. The Brahmin felt pity on him. She brought the prince to her home and started taking care of him like her own son.

After some time, Brahmini met a saint. The saint told him the importance of Pradosh fast. He said that by worshiping Lord Shiva with devotion and observing Pradosh fast, the problems of life can be removed. Impressed by the words of the saint, the Brahmini started observing Pradosh fast regularly along with her son and the prince.

Prince’s fate changed due to devotion to Shiva

The effect of Pradosh fast and devotion to Lord Shiva gradually became visible in the life of the prince. One day he met a beautiful princess in the forest. The affection between the two increased and after some time the princess’s father also accepted this relationship.

After this both of them got married. After marriage the prince decided to regain his lost kingdom. With his courage and bravery he faced his enemies and defeated them and regained his kingdom. Even after getting back the throne, the prince did not give up his devotion to Lord Shiva. He kept observing Pradosh fast regularly and kept receiving blessings of Mahadev. This story tells that maintaining faith and belief even in adverse circumstances can bring positive changes in life.

Importance of Ravi Pradosh fast

According to religious beliefs, observing Ravi Pradosh fast brings happiness and peace in a person’s life. This fast is also considered auspicious for the health and well-being of the family. It is believed that by worshiping Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati with true heart on this day, devotees get the blessings of Mahadev. During Pradosh period, reciting Vrat Katha along with Shiva puja is also considered important. It is said that listening or reading the story increases the religious importance of the fast. Devotees should meditate on Lord Shiva while keeping their mind calm during the puja.

Important rules of Pradosh Puja

Pradosh Kaal: Pradosh Kaal is a special time around sunset. Generally it is associated with the evening hours about two hours before and after sunset. Worshiping Lord Shiva at this time is considered especially fruitful.

Worship material: During the puja, offer belpatra, white rice, sandalwood, incense and lamp to Shivling. Along with this, chant mantras and do aarti while meditating on Lord Shiva.

Importance of donation: Since Ravi Pradosh falls on Sunday, it is considered auspicious to donate wheat, jaggery or a copper vessel to a needy person after the puja.

Worshiping Lord Shiva with reverence, restraint and devotion on the day of Ravi Pradosh fast gives peace to the mind. It is believed that worshiping Shiva and reciting Vrat Katha during Pradosh period brings blessings of Mahadev to the devotees and happiness and prosperity in life.