Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is an important Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This fast is observed on the Chaturthi tithi (fourth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every month. However, Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is particularly significant when it falls in the Magha month (January-February). This year, Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi will be observed on February 16, 2025.
Significance of Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi
The name “Dwijapriya” means “beloved of the Brahmins”, and Lord Ganesha is called so because he is the deity of wisdom, intellect, and knowledge, which are of utmost importance to Brahmins. The Sankashti Chaturthi fast is observed to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha for the removal of obstacles and hardships in life. It is believed that observing this fast brings peace, prosperity, and happiness, while eliminating difficulties and negative influences.
Rituals and Puja Vidhi of Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi
1. Bathing and Purification
- Wake up early in the morning and take a holy bath.
- Wear clean clothes and purify the home temple before starting the puja.
2. Sankalp
- Take a sankalp (vow) to observe the fast.
- Hold water, akshat (rice grains), flowers, and durva grass in your hands and pray to Lord Ganesha for the successful completion of the fast.
3. Ganesha Idol Installation & Worship
- Place an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha in the puja area.
- Light a diya (lamp) and offer roli (red vermillion), akshat, flowers, durva grass, sindoor (vermilion), sacred thread (janeu), and clothes to the deity.
4. Chanting Mantras
- Recite Lord Ganesha's mantras, such as:
- “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah” (ॐ गं गणपतये नमः)
- Chant this mantra at least 108 times to seek divine blessings.
5. Listening to the Vrat Katha
- Reading or listening to the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha is an important part of the puja.
- The story highlights the significance and power of the fast in removing obstacles.
6. Offering Arghya to the Moon
- On this day, it is customary to offer “Arghya” (water) to the moon.
- In the evening, after sighting the moon, offer water and prayers, seeking relief from difficulties.
7. Offering Bhog (Sacred Offerings) and Prasad
- Offer modak, laddus, jaggery, sesame seeds, and other sweets to Lord Ganesha as bhog (sacred food offering).
- After the puja, distribute prasad among family members.
8. Breaking the Fast
- After completing the puja and moon worship, break the fast.
- If a complete fast is not possible, you can consume fruits or satvik (pure vegetarian) food.
Benefits of Observing Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi Fast
- Removes Obstacles – Observing this fast eliminates challenges and difficulties from life.
- Enhances Knowledge & Wisdom – Lord Ganesha blesses devotees with intelligence and wisdom.
- Brings Prosperity & Happiness – The fast ensures peace, success, and well-being.
- Strengthens Family Bonds – Brings harmony, unity, and happiness within the family.
Precautions to Follow
- Maintain purity in thoughts, speech, and actions during the fast.
- Observe celibacy and maintain discipline throughout the day.
- Avoid negative thoughts and distractions, and stay devoted to Lord Ganesha.
- If fasting completely is difficult due to health reasons, fruits or milk can be consumed.
Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is a powerful and auspicious fast to receive Lord Ganesha’s divine blessings. By observing it with faith, devotion, and proper rituals, devotees can attain happiness, success, and relief from troubles. It is an opportunity to connect with the divine and invite positivity into life.