In Hinduism, the Pradosh Vrat is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva. This fast is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Religious belief holds that worshipping Mahadev during the *Pradosh Kaal* (the twilight period) ensures his grace remains upon devotees and opens paths to happiness, prosperity, and success in life. According to the *Panchang* (Hindu calendar), the Pradosh Vrat occurs twice a month—once during *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) and once during *Krishna Paksha* (waning phase). On this day, devotees observe a fast from the morning and, in the evening during *Pradosh Kaal*, perform a ritualistic worship of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and the entire divine family.

It is often observed that many people struggle with debt and make various efforts to repay it. Alongside these efforts, they offer prayers to deities, hoping for a quick resolution to their financial burdens. Let us find out from Pandit Anand Bhardwaj of Ujjain when the first Pradosh Vrat of September will be observed, and how observing it can help in getting relief from debt.

**When will the Pradosh Vrat be observed?**
According to the Vedic *Panchang*, the *Trayodashi Tithi* (thirteenth day of the lunar fortnight) of the *Bhadrapada* month begins at 05:12 AM on September 8th. It concludes at 3:00 AM on September 9th. Given the timing of *Pradosh Kaal*, the Pradosh Vrat will be observed on Tuesday, September 8th. Since this Pradosh Vrat falls on a Tuesday, it is known as *Bhaum Pradosh Vrat*.

**Significance of Bhaum Pradosh Vrat**
A Pradosh Vrat falling on a Tuesday is known as *Bhaum Pradosh*. Scriptures consider this day highly auspicious for clearing debts. The *Puranas* state that a person who views the idol of Lord Shiva during the first *Prahar* (first quarter/watch) of the *Trayodashi* night finds solutions to all their problems.

**Be sure to follow these rules:**
- On the day of the Pradosh Vrat, wake up early, bathe, offer *Arghya* (water oblation) to the Sun God, and take a solemn vow (*Sankalp*) to observe the fast.

- Afterward, thoroughly clean the place of worship and perform *Abhishek* (ritual bathing) of Lord Shiva using *Panchamrit* (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar). - Thereafter, worship the Shiva family and offer *Belpatra* (wood apple leaves), flowers, incense, *diya* (lamp), etc., to Lord Shiva.

- Then, recite the *Pradosh Vrat* story; following this, perform the *Aarti* of Lord Shiva and make sure to recite the *Shiva Chalisa*. Break your fast only after completing these rituals.

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