Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is considered an extremely sacred and significant day in Hinduism. It is observed on the Chaturthi Tithi (fourth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase) every month. The Sankashti Chaturthi falling in the Margashirsha (Agahan) month is specifically known as ‘Akhuratha.' Lord Ganesha is called ‘Akhuratha' because he can reach his devotees even without a chariot. This fast and worship are undertaken to remove obstacles, bring happiness, and eliminate hardships in life.
Date of Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi 2024
In 2024, this auspicious day falls on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Margashirsha (Agahan) month's Krishna Paksha Chaturthi is celebrated as Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, also known as the remover of obstacles and the savior during crises.
Significance of Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi
The name of this day reflects its importance. Sankashti' means the one who removes difficulties, and Lord Ganesha is venerated as the remover of all kinds of obstacles and hardships. Observing this fast and performing the rituals on this day offer:
- Relief from Hardships: This fast is believed to help devotees overcome difficult times. Lord Ganesha blesses his followers with renewed energy and positivity.
- Destruction of Sins: Observing the fast and performing the rituals purifies the devotee from past and present sins, offering a chance to reform life.
- Prosperity and Happiness: Worshiping Lord Ganesha brings peace, prosperity, and stability in life.
- Family Unity: This day also symbolizes family togetherness, as members pray together for harmony and well-being.
Rituals of Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi
- Morning Rituals: Begin the day with a bath and wear clean clothes. Purify the worship area with holy water and clean Lord Ganesha's idol or picture.
- Fasting: Take a vow to observe the fast, which lasts from sunrise to moonrise. Ideally, one should abstain from food and water, but fruit-based meals (phalahar) can be consumed if necessary.
- Recitation of Sankashti Katha: Reading or listening to the Sankashti Chaturthi story is considered essential during the worship, as it highlights Lord Ganesha's grace and greatness.
- Offering to the Moon: After performing the rituals, offer water (Arghya) to the moon while meditating on Lord Ganesha and praying for relief from hardships.
- Ganesha Worship:
- Offer flowers, durva grass, modaks, jaggery, and coconut to Lord Ganesha.
- Light a lamp and incense sticks.
- Chant Ganesha mantras, such as “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah.”
- Apply sandalwood paste (tilak) to Lord Ganesha's idol.
Do's and Don'ts on Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi
What to Do
- Chant Ganesha mantras, such as “Om Ganeshaya Namah” or “Om Kleem Ganapate Namah,” 108 times.
- Donate food, clothing, and money to those in need. Feeding the poor or offering green fodder to cows is highly auspicious.
- Meditate and focus on positivity throughout the day.
- Pray together as a family for unity and love.
What to Avoid
- Impurity: Perform rituals only after bathing and wearing clean clothes.
- Non-vegetarian Food: Avoid consuming meat or alcohol and any tamasic (harmful) food. sa
- Lies and Conflicts: Refrain from lying or engaging in arguments.
- Breaking the Fast Prematurely: Do not break the fast before offering prayers to the moon.
Mythological Story of Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi
In ancient times, there was a king named Chintak whose kingdom faced numerous difficulties. To resolve the issues, he sought advice from sages, who recommended observing the Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi fast. The king followed their guidance and worshiped Lord Ganesha with devotion. His kingdom was soon freed from all problems due to Ganesha's blessings.
This story emphasizes that worshiping Lord Ganesha and observing this fast can help overcome challenges and lead to a peaceful and prosperous life.
Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi is a special opportunity to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings. Devotees pray with utmost devotion on this day, asking for the removal of obstacles and resolution of life’s challenges. Proper observance of the fast and rituals ensures positivity, peace, and prosperity. By participating in this sacred day, one can lead a happier and more fulfilling life.
