Budhwar Vrat
To observe the Budhwar Vrat, one should wake up early and take a bath. Clean the place of worship and place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu and Mercury. Offer green-colored fruits, green gram (moong), tulsi leaves, and incense. Chant the Budhwar Vrat Mantra and listen or read the Budhwar Vrat Katha. The fast can be observed by consuming only once a day, preferably without salt, and breaking it after sunset.
Budhwar Vrat Katha
Once upon a time, there was a poor Brahmin who was facing extreme financial hardships. Despite his sincere efforts, he couldn’t overcome his struggles. One day, a wise sage advised him to observe the Budhwar Vrat and worship Lord Budhdev (the deity of Mercury) with full devotion. The sage instructed him to offer green items, chant mantras, and remain honest in his dealings.
The Brahmin started observing the vrat every Wednesday. Gradually, he saw positive changes — his debts were cleared, his health improved, and prosperity entered his life. The Brahmin realized that fasting and praying with pure intentions helped remove the negative effects of Mercury (Budh Grah) from his horoscope.
From then on, he continued the vrat with great faith, inspiring others in his village to do the same. Everyone who followed this vrat saw improvements in their fortunes, intelligence, and business success.
Thus, it is believed that observing Budhwar Vrat brings wisdom, peace, and financial growth by pleasing Lord Budhdev.
God Worshipped
Lord Ganesha / Budh Graha
Day Observed
Wednesday (Budhwar)
Associated Color
Green
God Worshipped
Lord Ganesha / Budh Graha
Day Observed
Wednesday (Badhwar)
Associated Color
Green
Essential Pooja Items (Pooja Samagri) for Budhwar Vrat
Photo or Idol of Lord Ganesha – preferably seated with Durva grass
Durva (Doob) grass – a must-have for Ganesha worship
Green Cloth – to place the idol or for wearing during the pooja
Haldi (Turmeric), Kumkum, and Chandan (Sandalwood paste)
Akshat (unbroken rice grains)
Flowers – especially green or white flowers like jasmine
Fruits – bananas, guava, or seasonal green fruits
Modak or Laddoo – Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet for bhog
Green Moong Dal – often offered and later donated
Incense sticks (Agarbatti) and Dhoop
Diya (lamp) – with ghee or oil
Kalash (copper or steel pot filled with water)
Camphor (Kapoor)
Budhwar Vrat Katha Book
Importance of Budhwar Vrat
Budhwar is ruled by the planet Mercury (Budh), which governs intellect, communication, and business. Fasting on this day is believed to enhance these aspects of life. It also helps devotees in overcoming misunderstandings, boosting mental clarity, and inviting prosperity and peace.
Benefits of Budhwar Fast
Strengthens communication and decision-making skills
Attracts financial stability and business growth
Balances Mercury’s position in one’s horoscope
Improves mental clarity and reduces confusion
Brings harmony in personal and professional life
Procedure of Budhwar Vrat
Wake up early, take a bath, and wear clean green or white clothes.
Clean the puja area and set up an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu or Budhdev (Mercury God).
Light a ghee lamp and incense sticks to begin the puja.
Offer green moong dal, guavas, green flowers, and tulsi leaves to the deity.
Chant the Budh Mantra: “Om Bram Breem Brom Sah Budhaya Namah” or recite Vishnu Sahasranama.
Take a Sankalp (vow) to observe the fast with sincerity for wisdom, health, and prosperity.
Keep a fast by consuming only fruits, milk, or saltless satvik food.
In the evening, perform another small puja before sunset.
Donate green items like clothes, vegetables, or moong dal to the needy.
Break the fast respectfully with a simple satvik meal or fruits.
Mantras to chant during the Budhwar Vrat
Planet Budh Mantra:
“Om Bum Budhaya Namah”
(ॐ बं बुधाय नमः)
Planet Budh Beeja Mantra:
“Om Bram Breem Broum Sah Budhaya Namaha”
(ॐ ब्रां ब्रीं ब्रौं सः बुधाय नमः)
Food Items Do's and Don'ts for Budhwar vrat or Wednesday Fast
Food to Eat in Budhwar Vrat
Fruits
Green vegetables
Sabudana dishes
Rock salt
Kuttu or Singhara flour
Milk, curd, and buttermilk
Green moong dal
Dry fruits like almonds, raisins, and dates
Food Items to Avoid in Budhwar Vrat
Regular salt
Non-vegetarian food
Onion and garlic
Grains like wheat or rice
Heavy, fried, or oily food
Spicy or processed snacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Which God day is the day of Budhwar?
Budhwar is dedicated to Lord Buddha (Mercury) and also associated with Lord Vishnu. Devotees worship these deities to gain wisdom, clarity, and success in communication and business.
What are the benefits of Budhwar vrat?
Observing Budhwar Vrat can improve communication skills, boost intelligence, attract financial growth, and help balance Mercury in one’s horoscope. It also promotes peace, prosperity, and clarity in decision-making.
Why is Wednesday called Budhwar?
The name “Budhwar” comes from “Budh,” the Sanskrit word for Mercury—the planet associated with intellect and communication. Hence, Wednesday is named after the planet Mercury in Indian tradition.
How to make Budh happy?
To please Budh (Mercury), observe Budhwar Vrat, wear green, offer green moong dal and fruits, chant “Om Bum Budhaya Namah,” and stay calm, polite, and honest in your speech.
What is Wednesday famous for?
In spiritual terms, Wednesday is known for enhancing wisdom, business acumen, communication, and learning. It is an ideal day for worshiping Mercury and seeking blessings for mental clarity and growth.