PRADHOSHA MAHIMA -

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Pradhosha Mahima

Pradhosha pooja is one of the most important among the poojas performed to

the Graceful Lord Shiva. In Shukla Paksha (15 moon days from New moon to

Full moon) and Krishna Paksha (15 moon days from Full moon to New moon) the

evening of the trayodasi (thirteenth moon day) between 4.30 p.m. to 6.00

p.m. is called Pradhosha. It comes once in fifteen moon days. Pradhosha time

is especially meant for praying Lord Shiva. Praying in that time will free

us from out sins and gives moksha finally (hence the name Pradhosha). During

pradoSha time a special type of circumambulating called soma sUtra

pradaxiNam(1) is done.

Pradhosha Purana:

Once Dhevas and Asuras using the serpent Vasuki and the hill Mandhara were

trying to get Amrutham (nector) from the Kseerabthi (milk ocean). Then the

terrible poison Halahalam came up. All got frightened and pleaded to Lord

Shiva for rescue. Being the peak of mercy Lord Shiva ate that poison. Then

as per His order they resumed their effort to get Amrutham. They got it on

Dhwadhasi (twelfth moon day). Without praying and thanking the God, by whom

they got Amrutham, Devas started dancing and celebrating their victory.

On thrayodhasi (thirteenth moon day) they realised their sin of not praying

the God and pleaded for forgiveness. The pleased graceful Lord Shiva forgave

them and danced between the horns of the Nandhi (holy bull). That time is

called Pradhosham. Whoever prays Lord Shiva in that time, Lord Shiva

fulfills their wishes and give them mukthi.

During Prodhosha time anointing (Abhishekam) the Shiva deity with the

following is considered fruitful.

 

Milk gives long life

Ghee gives Moksha state

Curd gives good children

Honey gives melodious voice

Rice powder frees from debts

Sugar cane juice gives good health

Panjamrutham gives wealth

Lemon removes fear of death

Sugar removes enmity

Tender coconut gives enjoyment

Cooked Rice(Annam) gives mejestic life

Sandal gives Lakshmi's grace

Anoint the Lord Shiva with Love, He would give Himself !!

Bilvam and flowers can be given for Shiva pooja. Please go to Shiva temple

for every Pradhosham and live in His grace blissfully.

shivAya namaOm bhavAya namaH

bhavAya namaOm namaH shivAya