In Hindu religion, each day of a week is dedicated to a particular God or Goddesses. Friday or Shukrawar is dedicated to Shakti the Mother Goddess in Hinduism and Shukra or Venus. One of the most important Vrat or Upvaas (fast) on the day is dedicated to Santhoshi Matha (an incarnation of Shakti). The fasting is also known as Solah Shukravar Vrats because a devotee fasts for 16 consecutive Fridays. White color is given importance on Friday.
Worship of Shakti Durga, Kali and other forms on Friday is considered highly auspicious. Shakti temples in India attract large number of devotees on this day. Devotees wear white colored dress on this day. The fasting on Shukravar begins at sunrise and ends with sunset. The person fasting only partakes in the evening meal. White colored food like kheer or milk is the most preferred.
Fast is kept for various reasons which include removal of obstacles, for a child, happy family life etc.
There are numerous stories associated with Shukravar. In almost all the stories, Lord Shukra or Venus is dishonored in the beginning and the devotee later realizes his/her folly through numerous untoward incidents.
