Budha Pradosh
Also called: Saumya Pradosh
Budha Pradosh occurs on Wednesday, the weekday ruled by Budha (Mercury), the significator of intellect, education, and speech. Devotees observe this fast to seek mental focus, academic advancement, business acumen, and clarity in communication.
Key facts
- Paksha
- Both Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha
- Lunar month
- Occurs throughout all lunar months
- Observed on
- Trayodashi falling on a Wednesday (Budhwar)
- Deities
- Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Budha (Mercury)
The story
The traditional narrative involves a newlywed couple travelling to their hometown who encounter unexpected misfortune and misunderstanding along the journey. After observing the Wednesday Pradosha fast and praying to Lord Shiva, the obstacles vanished and peace was restored, symbolizing clarity and resolution of conflict.
Practices
- Offering green bilva leaves and durva grass during evening puja
- Students and scholars pray for memory and analytical skills
- Chanting of the Shiva Panchakshara Stotra and Saraswati-Shiva prayers
Regional variations
- Observed by students and commercial traders across Maharashtra and Gujarat
Common questions
- Who should observe Budha Pradosh?
- While open to all devotees, it is especially favored by students, teachers, writers, and business professionals seeking wisdom and focus.
Types of Pradosh Vrat
- Som PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Monday (Somwar)
- Bhauma PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Tuesday (Mangalwar)
- Budha PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Wednesday (Budhwar)
- Guru PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Thursday (Guruwar)
- Shukra PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Friday (Shukrawar)
- Shani PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Saturday (Shaniwar)
- Ravi PradoshTrayodashi falling on a Sunday (Raviwar)