The importance of observing Pradosha is described in the Pradosha Mahatmyam from the Shiva Purana. Pradosha indicates the meeting of the Sun and the Moon in a horizontal line during their movement on their Axis.
The first Pradosham of July, 2023 fell today Saturday (July 1) and is thus known as Shani Pradosham or Shani Pradosham Vrata. According to Hindu astrology Saturn is known to affect one adversely on occasions when it placed in a certain position in one's horoscope. A prayer to God, especially on Saturdays, is said to mitigate one’s hardships. Thus, it is believed that by observing a Vrata (vow) and offering prayers to Lord Shiva on Shani Pradosham, one can escape from the ill effects of Lord Shani (one of the Navagrahas or nine celestial Gods).
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| 4th Prakaram Chinna Nandi |
Shani Pradosham is classified into Uthama Shani Pradhosham, Mathima Shani Pradhosham, and Athama Shani Pradhosham.
Uthama Shani Pradhosha is the Shani Pradhosham that comes during the Tamil month of Chithirai, Vaigasi, Ayppasi and Karthigai during the waxing period. Mathima Shani Pradhosham occurs during the Tamil month of Chithirai, Vaigasi, Ayppasi and Karthigai during waning period. All other Shani Pradhoshams come under the category Athama Shani Pradhosha.
Kodi Kampathu Nandi, 3rd Prakaram
Abhishekam occurred upon all 5 Temple Nandis i.e. Pradosha Nandi in the Moolastanam, Ratha Vilaku Nandi in the Second Prakaram, Kodi Kampathu Nandi in the Third Prakaram (near Flagpost), Chinna Nandi in the fourth prakaram and Periyar Nandi that stands in front of the Vallala Gopuram in the Fifth Prakaram.
