Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat

ॐ Hindu Of Universe ॐ

“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”

Sankashti Chaturthi

Sankashti Chaturthi or Sankatahara Chaturthi is a festival devoted to the benign Elephant God or Lord Ganesha. On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha to overcome their hurdles in life and to come out as an achiever in difficult times. This Hindu festival is observed every month on the “Chaturthi” (Fourth Day) of the Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of moon). It is also known by the name of “Sankat Hara Chaturthi” in the state of Tamil Nadu in India. The most promising and auspicious Sankashti Chaturthi is known as the Angaraki Chaturthi, which falls on a Tuesday.

A lunar month in the Hindu Panchang shows two Chaturthi Tithis (Dates). ‘Sankashti Chaturthi’ falls after Puranmasi or on the full moon day during the Krishna Paksha, while the ‘Vinayaka Chaturthi’ falls after Amavasya or on the new moon day during the Shukla Paksha. Sankashti Chaturthi is celebrated in the Northern as well as the Southern states of India. The word “Sankashti” comes from Sanskrit and implies “freedom from difficult times”.

Sankathara Chaturthi Pooja Procedure

  • Devotees wake up early this day to worship Lord Ganesha as per the norms of Sankashti Chaturthi fasting procedure.
  • You may only eat the roots of plants, fruits and raw vegetables while doing this pooja.
  • A normal diet on this day comprises of fresh potatoes, Sabudana and peanuts.
  • Durva grass and fresh flowers are used to decorate the idol of Lord Ganesha.
  • This is followed by narration of the ‘Vrat Katha’ for the month in honour of the Lord.
  • Sankatahara Chaturthi Pooja is done in the evening after viewing the moon (Chandrodaya). You can break your fast only after you have held the moon in plain sight.

Importance Of Sankashti Chaturthi

The sighting of the moon is a sacred ritual observed diligently on the Chaturthi Tithi. After the Sankashti Chaturthi moonrise, the fast is broken. It is believed that all desires get fulfilled if an individual keeps this fast. There are a total 13 Vrats, which constitute the perfect cycle of Sankashti Chaturthi and for every Vrat there is a different Vrat Katha. ‘Adika’ is the last Katha which can be read once every four years.

Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon, also known as Purnima, each month. This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity.

The word “Sankashti” is derived from the Sanskrit language, where “Sankashti” means “deliverance during difficult times,” and “Chaturthi” refers to the fourth day. This festival holds great importance in Hindu culture and is observed with devotion and enthusiasm by millions of devotees across India and other parts of the world.

Rituals associated with Sankashti Chaturthi begin a day prior to the main day, during the evening hours. Devotees clean their homes and decorate the altar with flowers and rangoli, vibrant patterns made with colored powders. On the day of the festival, devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, abstaining from consuming food and water throughout the day.

In the evening, devotees gather in temples or their homes for the worship of Lord Ganesha. A clay idol or picture of Lord Ganesha is placed on the altar, adorned with flowers, fruits, and traditional sweets. The main puja (ritual worship) begins with the chanting of sacred hymns and the recitation of prayers dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Devotees offer modak (a sweet dumpling considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite), coconut, jaggery, and other traditional sweets as prasadam (blessed food) to the deity.

Following the puja, the devotees perform the moon-sighting ritual known as “moon gazing” or “chandra darshan.” This ritual involves looking at the moon through a sieve or the gaps between fingers, followed by reciting special prayers and singing devotional songs dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is believed that observing the moon during Sankashti Chaturthi brings good luck and fulfills one’s wishes.

The significance of Sankashti Chaturthi lies in its association with Lord Ganesha and the blessings he bestows upon his devotees. It is believed that worshiping Lord Ganesha on this day removes all obstacles, brings success, prosperity, and happiness in one’s life. Devotees seek his divine intervention to overcome challenges and seek his blessings for new ventures, academic pursuits, and personal growth.

Furthermore, Sankashti Chaturthi is considered an opportune time to seek forgiveness for any mistakes or wrongdoings. Devotees engage in self-reflection and introspection, resolving to rectify their shortcomings and lead a righteous life. This festival promotes unity, devotion, and the virtues of discipline and perseverance.

In conclusion, Sankashti Chaturthi is a revered Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon each month. The rituals and fasting associated with this festival symbolize devotion, seeking divine intervention, and overcoming obstacles. Devotees observe this day with utmost sincerity, seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha for a prosperous and obstacle-free life.

Introduction to Sankatahara Chaturthi

The word ‘Sankat’ or ‘Sankata’ means problems and ‘Hara’ means removing or mitigating. Chaturthi is the 4th day after the New Moon Day or the Full Moon Day. Sankatahara Chaturthi is thus the day meant especially for eliminating one’s problems. This day is also called Sankashti Chaturthi. It falls on the 4th lunar day (Chaturthi) after the Full Moon day during Krishna Paksha, the waning phase of the moon, every month. This is an auspicious day when Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is worshipped for getting rid of difficulties.

Significance of Sankatahara Chaturthi

According to mythology, Lord Ganapati or Ganesha is regarded as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is hailed as the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of success, and so, he is both loved and venerated. He has an elephant face, but also has a primordial form with a human head. He is celebrated as the hero of strength, a happy dancer, a sweet child and many more. It is considered a good custom to seek his blessings while starting any endeavor or undertaking any venture.

Mythology behind Sankatahara Chaturthi

According to legends, Goddess Parvati created Lord Ganesha, as she felt the need for an escort while she had a bath. She created a boy out of sandalwood paste, breathed life into the boy and asked him not to let anyone inside her premises. When Lord Shiva came to visit the Goddess, the young boy restricted him, without knowing that the Supreme Lord is his father. A huge battle broke in between them, in which Shiva beheaded Ganesha. When Parvati returned, she was shocked to see her son dead and took on a terrible form out of anger. Lord Shiva, tried to amend his mistake, fixed an elephant’s head over the boy’s body and brought him to life. It is believed that this event and the honor of calling Ganesha as the ‘Lord of the Ganas’ and ‘remover of obstacles’ happened on Sankatahara Chaturthi.

Rituals of Sankatahara Chaturthi

The fourth Waning Moon is an occasion of spiritual significance when the energies available will substantially amplify the effect of any worship done. Hence, Sankatahara Chaturthi is specially chosen for Ganesha’s worship to get effective relief from obstacles. Ancient texts too speak about the importance of the day, narrating stories highlighting its significance. While people visit temples for offering prayers to the Lord, idols of Ganapati made of clay are also installed at homes and worshipped.

Sankatahara Chaturthi worship consists mainly of the ceremony of smashing coconuts. In this, coconuts in large and varying numbers are smashed on stone or the ground in front of the idol or select locations, as a form of ritualistic worship. Just like Lord Shiva having three eyes symbolizing the three fundamental activities of creating, preserving and destroying, the coconut too has three eyes that stand for ego, illusion, and karma that form the very basis of any obstacle. By smashing the three-eyed coconut, we can wipe out the karmic influences, so that all impediments are removed, and we can make rapid progress in both, the material and spiritual domains.

Some devotees also observe Vrat (fasting) on this day, until the sighting of the Moon in the evening and this is known as Sankatahara Chaturthi Vrat.

Benefits of Observing Sankatahara Chaturthi Vrat

Worshipping Lord Ganesha on Sankatahara Chaturthi can get you his graceful blessings.

  • Clear problems and hurdles in life
  • Grant happiness and prosperity
  • Fulfilment of wishes
  • Blessings of progeny
  • Remove negative energies including the evil eye
  • Help to acquire wealth and prosperity in the current life
  • Relief from sins and help attain moksha (salvation)

Sankashti Chaturthi is celebrated in honour of Lord Ganesha. It is observed on the chaturthi of the Krishna Paksha of every Hindu calendar month. On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha to help them overcome all the obstacles in life.

Sankashti Chaturthi Can Bring Happiness In Your Life

“Vakratunda Mahakaya Surya koti Samaprabha Avighnam Kurume Deva Sarva Karyeshu Saravada”

OM Ekadantaya Vidmahe Vakkratundaya Dheemahi, Tanno Danti Prachodayat

Gajananam Bhoota Ganadi Sevitam,

Kapittha Jammbu Phala Charu Bhakshanam

Umasutam Shoka Vinasha karakam

If there’s a god in the Hindu pantheon that symbolises auspicious beginnings, the God can be Lord Ganesha. The God of elephants is revered at the start of the seasons and also for rituals to mark this time. It is also the day each month that the worship is believed to be at its highest. Also known by the name of Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sakat Chauth, the day is also considered to be more blessed.

Sankashti Chathurthi also known as the Sakat Chauth, is observed on the 4th day of Krishna Paksha of every lunar month. It is one of the most powerful fasts in the Hindu religion. This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Sankashti is a Sanskrit word that means freedom from obstacles; And Chathurthi is the fourth day.

Its importance is narrated in the Bhavishyat Purana, Narasimha Purana, and Lord Krishna narrated this to Yudhisthara as well. On this day, Lord Shiva has announced Lord Ganesha was one of the most superior Lords, hence considered auspicious. The Sankashti Chathurthi has profound importance in the Shravan month where it is said that fruits of Akshay will be received if one follows and observes fast on this day.

According to the Bhavishya purana when one feels that they are surrounded with problems, once can perform this vrat/ fast. The Ganesha Ek dant avatar with a big stomach is known as the key characteristics of this special avatar. This shows that He keeps the whole world safe inside his stomach. The Ek-Dant Lord Ganesha is blue in color. He has 4 hands. The front hand has the other half of the broken tooth; the other 3 hands have an axe, Rudraksh japa string, and a ladoo.

What Is Sankashti Chaturthi?

Every lunar month in the Hindu panchang (Calendar) includes two Chaturthi (4) dates, also known as tithis. The one that occurs after the full Moon Moon (Purnima) in Krishna Paksha is Sankashti Chaturthi. The one followed by Amavasya or the new Moon occurs during this Paksha (Shukla).

The festival is celebrated all over India; Sankashti Chaturthi is celebrated every fourth day or Chaturthi of each month on the Hindu calendar. The day is also connected to the Krishna Paksha or the sunset phase of the Moon.

Although several states in India celebrate the day, with a particular emphasis in Maharashtra, the day is recognized by many various names. Also known by the name Sankatahara Chaturthi in Tamil Nadu, the day is also known as Angaraki Chaturthi because it occurs on the second Tuesday of every month.

Lord Ganesha’s devotees observe a fast from early morning before Sunrise until the sunset to celebrate Sankashti Chaturthi. The Word Sankashti is a symbol of deliverance in difficult times.

The fast is meant to be restricted, and only fruits are allowed to eat along with roots of the plant that is located beneath the soil) and vegetables are allowed to be eaten. The most typical Indian diet for Sankashti Chaturthi comprises Sabudana Khichadi and potato, as well as peanuts.

Fasting is broken at night after they have seen the Moon.Tamil Hindus worship Lord Ganesha, and in South India, people celebrate it as a Sankatahara Chaturthi, also known as Sankashti Chaturthi in North India. Sankashti Chaturthi is an auspicious festival dedicated to Lord Ganesh and is called Vighnaharta (the conqueror of all issues). A majority of Hindu devotees mark the day with enthusiasm. In each lunar month on the Hindu calendar on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha, it is believed that in each lunar month.

It is an important day of worship for Ganesh, the God of heaven, based on Hindu mythology. Ganesh because the Supreme Lord Shiva declared Ganesh to be his son. Ganesh is supreme among the Gods apart from Vishnu, Lakshmi, Shiva, and Parvati.

Importance Of Sankashti Chaturthi

Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sakat Chauth, is called Sankatahara Chaturthi in the south Indian states. The Sankashti Chaturthi has immense significance.The puja is celebrated to ensure the prosperity and well-being of the entire family. This Sankashti Chaturthi pooja is performed in the evening, following the sighting of the Moon. An idol representing Ganesha is placed on a clean and tidy platform. The Durva grass and flowers are given to Ganesha, the Lord. Delicacies such as modaks and laddoos are placed in front of Lord Ganesha.

Ganesha will be the first God to be worshipped at any event, and he will be the one to get rid of any obstructions. There is a belief that Lord Shiva granted this blessing to Lord Ganesha on the Sankashti Chaturthi holiday. This is why devotees revere Sankathara and Vighnaharta to celebrate Sankashti Chaturthi to remove any obstacles that hinder their lives.

● Devotees believe that aside from protecting devotees against all hazards, Lord Ganesha’s blessings are available to couples ready to bear children.

● Following the Moon’sMoon’s sighting, the pooja is initiated by reading the Vrata Katha or the month’s stories in question. After that, the pooja is typically done by two people that observe closely to bless the potential for the family to expand.

● And praising the God of heaven on this day will bring health, knowledge, wealth, and happiness to those who are devoted. Shiva Purana explains that following a fast or vrat (fast) during this day of auspiciousness with total commitment and faith will eliminate any obstacles.

● The Brahma Vaivarta Purana says that Lord Ganesha is the Supreme Lord’s son Shiva and Parvati and is an expression of the supreme consciousness. Therefore, in worshipping Ganesha, one receives blessings that include mind, wisdom, and liberation from all difficulties.

Rituals Of Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat

In the early mornings of Sankashti Chaturthi, people get up early and take an early bath. Bath is best taken before Sunrise. Some are on a full-day fast, during which they consume any salt-laden food the next day after Sankashti Chaturthi Others, who are in partial fasting, take a snack of fruits and kheer after performing Puja.

A few people visit the temple, give Aarti to worship Lord Ganesha,and perform a mantra. A few people practise the Puja in their homes only, and thus they put Idol of Ganesha in a clean place and offer Dhruv Grass to the gods, Ghee Aarti, and an incense stick. Prasad Ladaoo, along with Modak, is made available.

Rituals start in Mantras, then Vrata Katha. In the end, Aarti takes place. The data story is generally read by the priest or other elderly household members. Then, puja prasad is offered to each member. In addition, the praying of Lord Ganesha and the moon is celebrated in the month of Sankashti Chaturthi. Sandalwood, water, Chandan paste, rice, and flowers are presented to moonlight.

Reciting the Vedic songs or mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha is a blessing during this time. The devotees chant the Ganesha Ashtothra, Sankashtnashana sthothra, and Vakratunda Mahakaya in particular in the month of Sankashti Chaturthi.

Story Related To Lord Ganesha

Lord Ganesha was manifested and created by Goddess Parvathi out of sandal paste and given life. She then asked him to stand guard while she bathed. Lord Shiva returned and saw him. Lord Shiva tried to enter the area, but Lord Ganesha did not allow him to enter. Lord Shiva became angry and questioned him about his manners. Lord Shiva’s followers fought with Lord Ganesha. Even Narada, the Trinity Gods, and Indra tried to defeat him but Lord Ganesha being the embodiment created by Ma Shakti defeated everyone in his way. Enraged, Lord Shiva severed Lord Ganesha’s head. Seeing her son dead, Goddess Parvathi revealed her fierce form of Adi Shakti. She vowed to destroy the universe if her son was not brought back to life. The Gods hunted for ahead, they found a baby elephant dead with his mother crying. The elephant was pacified and fixed this head-on Lord Ganesha. His name was declared by Lord Shiva to be the most supreme of the Lords. From this day his name was Lord “Ganesha.”

Sankashti Chathurthi Vrat Story

In the Sanathan Dharma, any auspicious activity is done by invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Around 12 to 13 days in a year fall as Sankashti. There are many stories about the day being celebrated. One of the important stories is:

Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakhmi were to be wed. All the Gods except Lord Ganesha were called for the wedding. The day of the wedding arrived. All the demi-Gods were present except for Lord Ganesha. They were all searching for Lord Ganesha. All were astonished why Lord Ganesha was not called. Lord Vishnu justified saying Lord Shiva was called and Lord Ganesha belonging to the same family was not invited separately. He said that Lord Ganesha eats a portion fully and walks slowly on the rat.

Lord Ganesha was then called and made to sit at the door. Lord Narada has arrived at the scene. Seeing Lord Ganesha there he asked why he was sitting there. Lord Ganesha said that he was insulted by making him sit like a watchman outside. Lord Narada said to send the rat’s army in front of the wedding party so that they can dig a huge pit for the wedding party and vehicles to fall in there. The wedding party would not be able to move forward. Lord Ganesha did exactly that. The wheels of the chariots got stuck in the pit and broke. No one could understand why this was happening.

Lord Narada told everyone that Lord Ganesha was insulted, and he needs to be pacified and asked apology. Nandi brought Lord Ganesha and all asked forgiveness from Lord Ganesha. He forgave all of them and the chariots now came out of the pits. But the chariots were now broken, a mason was passing by who said that he can fix the chariot. He invoked the blessings of Lord Ganesha and fixed the broken chariots. Now he told the wedding party that all these problems had come because before starting an auspicious work, they might have not remembered Lord Ganesha.

The demi-Gods realized their mistake and prayed to Lord Ganesha offered him their obeisance and asked for an obstacle-free wedding. From this day on Sankashti Chathurthi has been celebrated.

Procedure To Perform The Sankashti Chathurthi Fast

Devotees keeping this fast wake up early in the morning and take a holy bath and wear red and white clothes, they make the determination or vow to do the fast also known as Sankalp. The idol of Lord Ganesha is very important for this fast. Lord Ganesha is the remover of all obstacles and the giver of a problem-free life. So the idol of Lord Ganesha is made to wear a janau (Sacred thread), decorated with durva grass, and flowers, offered abir, Chandan (sandal), Gulal (color), and perfume. Prasad such as modak, ladoo, or items liked by Lord Ganesha is prepared on this day. Jaggery, coconut, fruits on a pan leaf, Nagarvel plant, and betel nut is offered. Mantras and stotras to please Lord Ganesha are chanted to please the Lord. The pooja begins by offering prayers to the Lord and reciting stories and the Vrat Katha.

Offering camphor in aarti is considered auspicious. Distribute the Prasad by offering it to all family members. Before and after the pooja do not see the back of Lord Ganesha. Seeing the back indicates loss of wealth.

The fast is broken after offering prayers and seeing the moon. Rice, flowers, sandal paste, and water are offered to the moon.

The devotees are required to fast the whole day and offer prayers and aarti to Lord Ganesha in the evening. If you cannot fast completely fruits and milk can be taken. The fast is done for the well-being, prosperity, and progeny of the family. If you cannot do a full fast, you may abstain from normal food and consume only fast-specific foods. You should do the vow/sankalp according to what you are going to follow. These are

● Sabudana Khichdi

● Fresh fruits

● Unsalted Chips

● Peanuts

● Potato

● Milk

Benefits Of Sankashti Chathurthi

● Removing all obstacles in life

● Dispelling all difficulties, evils, and hurdles

● Blesses the person with happiness, prosperity

● Blesses the person with wisdom

● Bestows the person with good health and wealth

● End of all enmity, and destruction of disease

● Fulfillment of all wishes

● Financial growth and stability

Sankashti Chaturthi Means ‘Streamlined Success’

As per Hindu Panchang, the fourth day after full moon and the fourth day after new moon is observed as Chaturthi. So, there are two Chaturthi namely, Vinayaka Chaturthi and Sankashti Chaturthi. When this festival falls on Tuesday, then it is known as Angaraki Chaturthi. People in India celebrate this festival with great pomp and show. In Tamil Nadu, the festival is famous as Sankatahara Chaturthi.

Vinayaka Chaturthi, widely popular as Ganesh Chaturthi starts on the fourth day of Hindu lunisolar calendar month Bhadrapada. The festival is celebrated with the installation of Ganesha clay idols, especially in homes and office places. Vedic hymns, offerings, prayers, sweets, and fast observe for 10 days.

The Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi

From removing all your obstacles to finally blessed you with wisdom and bliss, the deity is responsible for partaking all your problems. Lord Ganesha is an embodiment of wisdom, virtue, and knowledge. Hence, the supreme deity is known to bestow you with health, wealth and happiness.

It is believed that all the wishes and dreams come true if one pray on this auspicious day with pure heart and soul. Hence, observing fast and performing rituals on Sankashti Chaturthi proves to be highly beneficial.

The day is considered to be auspicious because, on this day, Lord Shiva declared his son Ganesha the most superior among all gods. Hence, this is the reason, Sankashti Chaturthi is considered as one of the auspicious fast observed by women for the betterment of the family.

Rituals on Sankashti Chaturthi

●  The ritual ceremony is performed by the couples who observe the fast to get the blessings of the Lord
●  Devotees need to wake up early in the morning and put on clean clothes
●  The idol of Lord Ganesha is placed on a clean platform
●  Fresh flowers and Durva grass are offered to invoke the Supreme Lord
●  Delicacies like modaks and laddoos are placed before the Lord Ganesha
●  The pooja is observed in the evening after the sight of the moon
●  The ritual begins with chanting the Ganesh mantra and reciting the stories or the Vrata Katha

Vakra-Tunndda Maha-Kaaya Suurya-Kotti Samaprabha I
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryessu Sarvadaa II

Fasting on Sankashti Chaturthi

The fast is performed for the well-being and progeny of the family. The devotees must observe the fast from morning till evening. After the Ganesh puja, moon god is sighted and offerings are made to the moon god. People need to abstain from daily food items but here are few of the items that you can consume during the fast.

●  Sabudana ki khichdi
●  Fresh fruits
●  Unsalted chips
●  Peanuts
●  Potato

Difference between Sankashti Chaturthi and Vinayaka Chaturthi

●  A lunar month comprises of two fortnights. The fortnights can be divided into the dark half of the lunar month (Krishna Paksha) and the bright half of the lunar month (Shukla Paksha). The Chaturthi that arrives in the dark part is termed as Sankashti Chaturthi. While the Chaturthi that falls in the bright half is known as Vinayaka Chaturthi.
●  Sankashti Chaturthi fasting is observed for the deliverance from difficult times. While Vinayaka Chaturthi fasting is done for the salutations of Supreme Lord, Ganesha.
●  Sankashti Chaturthi is popular as Sankatahara Chaturthi, whereas Vinayaka Chaturthi is famous as Varada Vinayaka Chaturthi

In Hinduism, there are two types of Sankashti Chaturthi Dates 2023 (संकष्टी चतुर्थी की तारीखें) coming in a month one is Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha but of people are celebrating means doing fast for the Krishna Paksha as Sankashti Chaturthi. On the day, Of worshipping Lord Ganpati according to the law, then all the wishes are fulfilled and all the troubles go away. The devotees of Ganpati observe a fast on this day and break the fast after seeing the moon.

It is believed that Sankashti Chaturthi 2023 is the Chaturthi to end troubles. With the worship of the first revered Shri Ganesh, all the works are completed smoothly. People from North and South are believing this day of festival as most auspicious. While in the Maharashtra are showing more interest for this day, doing fast, puja and more.

We are celebrating Ganpati Sankashti Chaturthi with the worship of Lord Ganesha. It is coming on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha in every month. If it will come on Tuesday, then it called Angarika Chaturthi or most auspicious day but as per the ritual, we can get only one or two Angarika Chaturthi in a years. We are doing fasting for all day and Ganeshji provide us knowledge, pleasure and wisdom.

Checkout the list of next Sankashti Chaturthi Calendar 2023 (संकष्टी चतुर्थी कैलेंडर). Get the list of Sankashti Chaturthi in 2023 with chandrodaya time, also get sankatahara, angarika and sakat chauth list calendar which are coming in 2023 with moonrise time..

Sankashti Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrated every month on the fourth day of the waning moon. It is an important time for spiritual practice in many parts of India, and one that has been observed since ancient times. This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and it’s believed that He will provide protection and strength to his devotees if they observe a strict fast on this day.

Sankasthi Chaturthi Festival

All You Need To Know About Sankasthi Chaturthi!

Introduction to Sankasthi Chaturthi Festival

Sankashti Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu calendar month of Magh. It is observed mainly in Western India, particularly in the state of Maharashtra. The festival holds great significance for followers of Lord Ganesha and is considered to be one of the most auspicious days for worshipping the deity. Let’s find out the meaning and important rituals to follow on this auspicious day.

Sankashti Chaturthi meaning

The term Sankashti meaning is ‘deliverance from difficulties’ and it is believed that Lord Ganesha can provide relief from all obstacles and troubles. Therefore, Sankashti Chaturthi means the fourth day of the lunar calendar which delivers people from difficulties. The fast is observed from sunrise to moonrise and devotees break the fast with a meal after offering prayers to the Lord. On this day, Lord Ganesha is worshipped in the form of the ‘Sankashti Vinayak’ which is considered to be an incarnation of the Lord who can help overcome all obstacles.

Moreover, Sankashti Chaturthi is also known as lambodara sankashti chaturthi as this day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha who is also known as Lambodar and Vinayak. One of the key rituals of the Sankashti Chaturthi is the ‘Ganapati Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha’ which is a narrative that explains the story of Lord Ganesha and his ability to remove obstacles and grant blessings. The story is recited during the evening puja, followed by the offering of sweets and fruits to the Lord Ganesha.

In addition to the puja, devotees also participate in the ‘Modaka Habba’ which is a festival of sweets where Modak, a sweet dumpling filled with jaggery and coconut, is offered to Lord Ganesha. This sweet is considered to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite and is made in large quantities for the festival.

The Sankashti Chaturthi is also a time for charity and acts of kindness. Devotees offer food and clothes to the less fortunate and engage in other charitable activities as a way of seeking blessings from the Lord Ganesha.

Sankashti Chaturthi – Significance, Importance and Rituals

The festival of Sankashti Chaturthi is a celebration that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It holds utmost importance in the Hindu culture. In the year 2023 it will be observed for a total of 13 times. The devotees observe a fast on this auspicious day and pray and worship Lord Ganesha. There are ideally two types of fasts that people observe on this day, these include a full fast or a partial fast. In a partial fast people are allowed to eat certain food items. These items include the following:

  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Peanuts
  • Milk
  • Curd
  • Sabudana khichdi
  • Roots of plants

This festival is considered to be one of the most important festivals in Hindu culture. Moreover, there is also a proper sankashti chaturthi vrat vidhi than an individual observing a fast must follow, thi is as follows:

  • An individual must wake up early and declare that they will be observing a fast on this day
  • A morning pooja is done which include worshipping Lord Ganesha along with couple of his favourite items which include – Ladoos, Modaks, Fruits, and Flowers
  • The devotees visit the temple in the evening in order to gather and to sing and dance as an expression of their happiness and joy.
  • Moreover, in the evening the devotees recite and listen to the Vrat katha either in the temple itself or at their houses.
  • This is then followed by an evening pooja in which people offer the prepared food to Lord Ganesha and then serve it in the household as a form of prasad.

the Sankashti Chaturthi is an important festival in the Hindu religion, particularly for followers of Lord Ganesha. It is a day of fasting, prayer, and charity, and provides an opportunity for devotees to seek the blessings of the Lord and overcome obstacles in their lives.

Devotees observe a part or all-day fast on the day. They consume only fruits, vegetables, and plant matter throughout the day. Potatoes, peanuts, and sabudana Khichdi are specially prepared to celebrate the fasting day. When it is time to end the Puja, you can eat modak and ladoo, made available as Prasad. Many people doing an all-day fast can consume fruit and meetha items throughout the day.

The devotees believe that their desires are fulfilled by praying during this time. Keeping this fast is believed to alleviate problems since Ganesha is the one who removes all obstacles and is the ultimate God of intelligence. At night it is believed that the Ganapati Atharvasheersha is chanted so that the Lord’s blessing can be invoked. Before commencing any “Subha Karya” Ganesh puja, is performed to invoke to receive the blessings from Lord Ganesha to ensure that if a Vighna is spotted, it can be sucked out by the blessings of Lord Ganesha.

Fasting in the morning of Sakat Chauth or Lambodara Sankashti Chaturthi is observed from Sunrise until moonrise. This is when devotees begin their fast and perform Parana following the sight of the Moon. The Moon rises on Sakat Chauth (Lambodara Sankashti Chaturthi).

Sankashti Chaturthi Dates and Vrat Procedure You Should Definitely Know

The Hindu calendar observes Ganesh Puja every month. In common terms, it is famous as Sankashti Chaturthi. You may not be knowing about it, but the festival is celebrated all across India.

Sakat Chauth or Sankashti Chaturthi falls on the fourth day (in Hindi it is called Chaturthi) as per Hindu calendar in each month’s Krishna Paksha.

As stated earlier, the celebration is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The people of Maharashtra celebrated it with great zeal. When we go into the South, then we find that people call it by different names such as Sankat Hara Chaturthi, Angraki Chaturthi, Sankatahara Sathurthi and so on.

Meaning of Sankashti

Sankashti is a Sanskrit word that stands for ‘rescue from troubles’. As Lord Ganesha is known as Vighnaharta or obstacle remover, adulating him on Chaturthi eradicates all our problems.

Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat

This vrat holds greater significance. Devotees perform pooja or worship Lord Vinayaka (another name of Lord Ganesh) for the prosperity, peace, and happiness. Adulation takes place in the evening after Chandra darshan or moon sighting.

Usually, couples perform this pooja and observe a fast for progeny and growth of their family.

There come two Chaturthi tithis or dates in lunar months- Sakat and Vinayaka Chaturthi.

Sakat Chaturthi is observed after Poornima or full moon day in Krishna Paksha.

Vinayaka Chaturthi is observed after Amavasya or new moon day in Shukla Paksha.

Sankashti Chaturthi Fasting Procedure or Vrat Vidhi

Are you going to observe this fast? You should know the exact procedure associated with it. We have simplified it for you. Let’s take a look at given vrat vidhi for Ganesh Puja on Sankashti Chaturthi.

Step 1

Get up early in the morning and prepare for the pooja. Dedicate the day by observing a fast. Based on your ability, you can observe a strict or partial fast. Consume only fruits most preferably the ones that grow under the ground like roots of the plant. The most staple diet for this special day includes sabudana khichdi, potatoes, and peanuts.

Step 2

prepare a pooja thali with all essentials for worshipping Lord Ganesha by the evening. Set an altar and install the statue or idol of Lord Ganesha on it. Decorate it with green grass (Dhruva) and flowers.

Step 3

Offer specially made naivedya or offering comprising modak, laddus, fruits and other sweets.

Step 4

Light incense, dhoop and deep in front of the idol. After that, recite the sankatahara Chaturthi story or vrat Katha with mantra specific to the month.

Step 5

Once the story is finished, perform the aarti ceremony. Also, perform the pooja of the moon by sprinkling holy water, akshat, flowers and sandalwood paste in the same direction.

Step 6

Recite Sankashtnashana sthothra, Ganesha Ashtothra, and Vakrathunda Mahakaya too during Lord Ganesh pooja.

Step 7

Distribute the prasad among family members and break the fast. This way your Sankashti vrat is finished.

Different Months, Different Sakat Vrat Procedure and Story

You need to keep in mind that each month of Sakat Chaturthi involves worshipping Lord Ganesha with a different name and seat (Peeta). The fast includes thirteen different stories dedicated to a specific month. Although there are twelve months in a year as per English calendar, in Hindu calendar after four year comes an extra month. So, the thirteenth story is for that extra month.

How To Perform Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat And Puja? – Ganesh Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Procedure

Sankashti Vrat and Puja is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is observed on the fourth day after Purnima or full moon. Here is how to do or perform Sankashti Chaturthi Puja and Vrat. Sankashti fasting is from morning to the sighting of the moon. Sankashti Puja is performed in the evening. Observing Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to help in removing all difficulties and obstacles in life.

For most people, Sankashti Chaturthi is a complete fast which is broken after sighting the moon and performing puja. There are also people who observe partial fast.

Sankashti Chaturthi Morning Puja

  • After early morning bath, prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha in the usual way by lighting a lamp or Aarti.
  • Start the puja with the mantra गं गणपतये नम: Always do a simple puja avoid complicated rituals.
  • Anyone of the prayers dedicated to Lord Ganesh is chanted. The fasting begins after puja.

Food that can be eaten by those observing Partial Fasting

Those people observing partial fast can eat Sabudana Khichadi or fruits or curd rice.

Sankashti Chaturthi Evening Puja

  • The puja is usually performed after sighting the moon. If moon is not sighted, the puja is performed as per the moonrise time given in the Panchang or calendar.
  • Start puja by chanting ‘गं गणपतये नम:’
  • After sighting the moon, an idol or painting or photo of Lord Ganesh is decorated using flowers and Durva grass.
  • A lamp is lit.
  • While doing evening puja offer 21 Durva grass blades to Ganesha. Two leaves by chanting the name of Ganesha

The names to be chanted are:

ॐगणाधिपायनम: 

ॐउमापुत्रायनम: 

ॐविघ्ननाशनायनम :

ॐविनायकायनम:

ॐईशपुत्रायनम: 

ॐसर्वसिद्धिप्रदायनम:

ॐएकदंतायनम:

ॐइभवक्तायनम:

ॐमूषकवाहनायनम:

ॐकुमारगुरवेनम:

The last remaining one blade of Durva grass should be offered after chanting all the ten names together.

(If Durva grass is not available you can think of it in mind and make the offering – such offering is always accepted)

  • A coconut, banana, and flowers are offered to Lord Ganesh.
  • Usually, a Prasad (Modak or any other sweet) is prepared and offered.
  • Modak is prepared as Prasad. 21 Modak is usually offered.
  • Aarati is performed. Other usual puja procedures like chanting mantras, lighting incense or agarbattis are done.
  • After the Puja, the Prasad is distributed.
  • Some people opt for a more elaborate Shodashopachara puja – 16 steps.

Sankashti Chaturthi Evening Puja to Moon

  • Special pujas are offered to Chandra or moon god.
  • The puja involves sprinkling water, sandalwood paste, flowers and consecrated rice in the direction of the moon.

Mantras Chanted During Sankashti Vrat Day

  • Sankashtnashana sthothra
  • Ganesha Ashtottara
  • Vakratunda mahakaya or any of the popular mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesh is chanted.

Note – If moon is not visible you end the fast by looking the moonrise time in your calendar.