Devotees across India are observing Soma Pradosh Vrat on Monday, August 10, 2026, a sacred fast dedicated to Lord Shiva. The observance falls on a Monday during Trayodashi Tithi, giving it the name Soma Pradosh Vrat.

Pradosh Vrat is observed twice during a Hindu lunar month, once during Shukla Paksha and once during Krishna Paksha. When Trayodashi falls on Monday, the vrat is known as Soma Pradosh. Devotees observe the fast, offer prayers to Lord Shiva and perform special puja during the Pradosh period around sunset.

Soma Pradosh Vrat Today

According to the provided Panchang details, Trayodashi Tithi on August 10 begins at 8:01 AM and ends at 4:54 AM on August 11. The timings are based on Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, and may vary depending on the location.

The Pradosh period around sunset is considered particularly significant for worship. Devotees generally visit Shiva temples during the evening and take part in special prayers, abhishekam, bhajans and kirtans.

Why Monday Pradosh Is Special

Monday is traditionally associated with Lord Shiva in Hindu religious practice. Therefore, when Pradosh Vrat falls on a Monday, devotees consider the occasion especially auspicious.

The observance is associated with prayers for peace, prosperity and well-being. Traditional beliefs also hold that sincere worship during Soma Pradosh can help devotees seek Lord Shiva's blessings and overcome negative influences.

Puja and Abhishekam Rituals

Devotees observing Soma Pradosh Vrat generally begin the day with an early bath and prayers. Many devotees maintain a fast throughout the day and perform Shiva puja during the evening Pradosh period.

During the puja, devotees may perform abhishekam of the Shiva Lingam using offerings such as milk, curd, honey and ghee. Flowers, fruits, coconut, incense and belpatra are also commonly offered.

Lighting a diya during the evening puja is considered an important part of the traditional observance.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Devotees may also recite the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra and listen to the Soma Pradosh Vrat Katha. Reading or listening to passages associated with the Shiva Purana is also considered part of the traditional religious observance.

Some devotees undertake a strict fast without food, while others observe a partial fast by consuming fruits and water. The nature of the fast depends on individual religious practice and personal circumstances.

Evening Temple Visits

Shiva temples across the country are expected to see devotees during the evening hours. Special abhishekam, aarti and prayer programmes are commonly organised on Pradosh days.

The period around sunset is traditionally regarded as the most suitable time for Pradosh worship. Devotees may also participate in bhajan and kirtan programmes organised at temples.

Soma Pradosh Vrat Dates in 2026

There are four Soma Pradosh Vrat observances listed for 2026:

• March 16, 2026 — Trayodashi from 9:41 AM on March 16 to 9:23 AM on March 17

• March 30, 2026 — Trayodashi from 7:10 AM on March 30 to 6:56 AM on March 31

• August 10, 2026 — Trayodashi from 8:01 AM on August 10 to 4:54 AM on August 11

• December 21, 2026 — Trayodashi from 5:36 PM on December 21 to 2:24 PM on December 22

Significance of Pradosh Vrat

Pradosh Vrat derives its name from the period surrounding sunset and is traditionally considered an important time for worshipping Lord Shiva.

According to Hindu religious traditions, devotees observe the vrat seeking blessings for family well-being, peace, prosperity and spiritual growth. The observance is also associated with devotion, meditation and prayer.

Devotees should note that tithi and puja timings can differ by city, so those observing the vrat should check the local Panchang for the exact Pradosh Kaal and other timings.