The most ‘auspicious’ day of the New Year! You will not get such an opportunity again to get the blessings of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu together.

The new year 2026 is beginning with the blessings of God! The first day of the year, i.e. 1st January, is coming with a rare and very auspicious coincidence, which happens once in a year. Guru Pradosh fast is observed on this day.

This is no ordinary day. Let us understand in simple language why this day is so special and how you can get the blessings of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu together on this day.

So what is this great coincidence of ‘Hari-Har’ meeting?

• Pradosh Vrat: This fast is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati every month. It is believed that whoever worships Bholenath with full devotion on this day, all the troubles of his life go away and happiness and peace comes in the house.
• Thursday: Thursday is considered the day of Lord Vishnu (Shri Hari).
• Maha-Coincidence: When Pradosh Vrat falls on Thursday, it is called Guru Pradosh. And this time the very first day of the new year is Guru Pradosh, which means you can get the blessings of both Lord Shiva (Hara) and Lord Vishnu (Hari) on the same day.

Guru Pradosh Vrat 2026: Auspicious time and right time for worship

• Date of fasting: 1 January 2026, Thursday
• Most auspicious time of puja (Pradosh Kaal): Pradosh Vrat puja is always performed in the evening, after sunset. It is believed that at this time Lord Shiva dances happily on Kailash and fulfills every wish of his devotees.

Do these 5 things on this day, your luck will open!

1. Worship during Pradosh period: After fasting throughout the day, worship Lord Shiva in the evening during Pradosh period.
2. Panchamrit Abhishek: Abhishek Shivling with ‘Panchamrit’ by mixing milk, curd, ghee, honey and Ganga water.
3. Donation of yellow things: Since today is also Thursday, donate gram pulses or yellow fruits to a poor or needy person. This removes financial crisis.
4. Listen to the fast story: After the puja, definitely listen or read the story of Guru Pradosh fast.
5. Take blessings of elders: On this day, respect the elders of the house and seek blessings by touching their feet.

And don’t make these 5 mistakes even by mistake

1. Distance from Tamasic food: On this first and holy day of the year, do not cook or eat anything like onion-garlic, meat-liquor at home.
2. Fighting: Mahadev loves peace. Do not fight with anyone at home today.
3. Sleeping late: Don’t waste the first morning of the New Year by sleeping late. Wake up before sunrise and take bath and meditate on God.
4. Things prohibited in worship: Do not offer Ketaki flower, vermilion or basil leaves even by mistake in the worship of Lord Shiva.
5. Do not wear black clothes: Avoid wearing black clothes while worshiping today. Wearing yellow or white clothes is most auspicious.

May such a holy beginning of the New Year fill your entire year with happiness and blessings.