Vrat and Fasting GuidePradosh and Sankashti
What the Pradosh vrat (13th lunar day, for Shiva) and Sankashti Chaturthi (4th day of the dark fortnight, for Ganesha) are, how they are kept, and why the evening and the moon matter.
Pradosh vrat is kept on the thirteenth lunar day (trayodashi) of each fortnight, twice a month, in honour of Shiva. The worship is done in the pradosh kaal, the twilight just before and after sunset, when Shiva is said to be pleased. Devotees fast through the day, go to a Shiva temple in the evening, pour water and milk on the lingam and eat after the evening prayer. When Pradosh falls on a Monday it is called Soma Pradosh and on a Saturday Shani Pradosh.
Sankashti Chaturthi is kept on the fourth day (chaturthi) of the dark fortnight each month in honour of Ganesha, who removes obstacles (sankashta, trouble). The fast is broken in the evening after sighting the moon and offering water. When it falls on a Tuesday it is called Angarki Chaturthi and is specially valued. Our Ganesha page tells more.
The times depend on the panchang and the moonrise in your city; ask a priest or use a trusted source. We do not give them here.
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This page describes common practice. Families differ, and the tradition itself says that illness and age are good reasons to reduce a fast. It is not medical advice: please talk to a doctor if you have a health condition. Times for fasts depend on the panchang for your city.