Pradosham

Pradosham is the bi-monthly Shiva observance falling on the Trayodashi (13th) tithi of both Shukla and Krishna paksha — specifically the 1.5-hour window before sunset (the pradosha period). Shiva is worshipped during this transitional time between day and night.

Significance

The Pradosha period is considered exceptionally auspicious for Shiva worship — when Shiva is said to be in a particularly accessible and benevolent state. The Nandi facing Shiva in every Shiva temple is said to be the gatekeeper of this access. Soma Pradosham (Monday) and Shani Pradosham (Saturday) are considered particularly potent.