Guru Pradosh
Also called: Brihaspati Pradosh, Guru Pradosham
Guru Pradosh occurs when Trayodashi falls on Thursday, ruled by Brihaspati (Jupiter), the preceptor of the gods. In Hindu philosophy, Shiva is revered as Dakshinamurti, the primordial Guru. This fast is kept for spiritual wisdom, guidance from teachers, and the dispelling of ignorance.
Key facts
- Paksha
- Both Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha
- Lunar month
- Occurs throughout all lunar months
- Observed on
- Trayodashi falling on a Thursday (Guruwar)
- Deities
- Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Guru Brihaspati
The story
Puranic accounts describe how the gods, facing loss of power and wisdom in conflicts with asuras, sought the counsel of Brihaspati and took refuge in Lord Shiva. Observing the Guru Pradosha vrata restored their spiritual authority and righteous strength.
Practices
- Offering yellow flowers, chana dal, or sandalwood paste during the evening puja
- Recitation of the Dakshinamurti Stotram and Shiva Sahasranama
- Honoring teachers, parents, and spiritual elders
Regional variations
- Special abhisheka rituals performed at Dakshinamurti shrines in South India
Common questions
- What is the spiritual significance of Guru Pradosh?
- It unites the grace of Lord Shiva as Dakshinamurti with Jupiter's energy of wisdom, righteous living, and higher knowledge.
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)