Sarva PanchangSarva Panchang
Pradosh Vrat

Som Pradosh

Also called: Soma Pradosham, Chandra Pradosh

Som Pradosh occurs when Trayodashi coincides with Monday, the weekday dedicated to Lord Shiva and ruled by Chandra (the Moon). In Vedic thought, Chandra represents the mind (manas). Worshipping Shiva on this day is believed to foster emotional calm, mental clarity, and the fulfillment of heartfelt prayers.

Key facts

Paksha
Both Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha
Lunar month
Occurs throughout all lunar months
Observed on
Trayodashi falling on a Monday (Somwar)
Deities
Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Chandra Dev

The story

Traditional collections recount the story of an impoverished Brahmin widow and her son who gave shelter to a prince exiled by hostile forces. Advised by a sage, the widow observed the Som Pradosh vrata. Through the merit of their devotion, the prince regained his kingdom and the widow's family was freed from poverty, demonstrating the virtues of faith and compassion.

Practices

  • Abhisheka with raw cow milk and panchamrita during evening twilight
  • Chanting the Om Namah Shivaya mantra 108 times
  • Prayers dedicated to mental peace and family well-being

Regional variations

  • Widely observed with special evening abhishekas across Jyotirlinga and South Indian Shaivite shrines

Common questions

What are the benefits of observing Som Pradosh?
Tradition holds that Som Pradosh promotes mental tranquility, emotional stability, and divine blessings for family harmony.

Types of Pradosh Vrat