Shani Trayodashi 2026: Auspicious Date, Puja Timings, and Spiritual Significance

Shani Trayodashi 2026: A Sacred Day for Devotees

Shani Trayodashi is an auspicious occasion that occurs twice each month, during both the waxing (shukla paksha) and waning (krishna paksha) phases of the moon. Pradosh, as it is commonly known, is considered an extremely fortunate time to worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati with deep devotion and dedication. This month, Pradosh will align with the trayodashi tithi of the krishna paksha in the Hindu month of Phalguna, falling on a Saturday, which gives it the special name Shani Trayodashi. The event is scheduled for February 14, 2026, adding to its spiritual allure.

Shani Trayodashi 2026: Date and Time Details

Devotees should mark their calendars for the following precise timings to observe the rituals correctly:

Trayodashi Tithi Begins: February 14, 2026, at 04:01 PM
Trayodashi Tithi Ends: February 15, 2026, at 05:04 PM
Pradosha Puja Muhurat: February 14, 2026, from 06:10 PM to 08:44 PM
Day Pradosha Time: February 14, 2026, from 06:10 PM to 08:44 PM

These timings are crucial for performing the puja during the most auspicious window, ensuring maximum spiritual benefits.

Significance of Shani Trayodashi

Shani Trayodashi holds immense religious and spiritual importance in Hindu traditions. As Pradosh falls twice monthly, its occurrence on a Saturday amplifies its significance, making it a day to also honor Lord Shani Dev alongside Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This year, the day is particularly special as it precedes Mahashivratri, a major festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, enhancing the devotional fervor.

On this auspicious day, many devotees perform Jalabhishekam, a ritual of offering water to Lord Shiva. Those experiencing negative influences from Shani (Saturn) are advised to observe a fast, perform Rudrabhishek to the Shivlingam, and seek blessings to mitigate adverse effects. Additionally, lighting a mustard oil diya under a peepal tree is recommended for added spiritual merit.

In the evening, during the twilight period known as gaudhuli, devotees should conduct the pradosh puja by placing idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on a wooden plank. The ritual involves lighting a diya with desi ghee, invoking the deities through mantras, reciting the pradosh vrat katha, and concluding with an aarti. After completing all puja rituals, breaking the fast with sattvik food is customary.