What is Sankashti Chaturthi?
Sankashti Chaturthi is a highly sacred Hindu fast observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every month in honor of Lord Ganesha. The word “Sankashti” means — one that removes obstacles and troubles. It is believed that observing this fast with devotion and discipline helps to eliminate all hardships, obstacles, and mental worries from life.
Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Date and Time
Sankashti Chaturthi will begin on 6th January 2026, Tuesday at 8:01 AM and will end on 7th January 2026, Wednesday at 6:52 AM.
Religious Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi
Sankashti Chaturthi is particularly associated with moon sighting. The fast is broken only after sighting the moon. According to religious texts:
- Lord Ganesha fulfills the wishes of his devotees on this day
- It helps overcome mental stress, financial problems, and family disputes
- The fast symbolizes intelligence, wisdom, and success
Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Procedure
Observing the Sankashti Chaturthi fast requires purity, devotion, and discipline. The procedure is as follows:
- Take a bath during Brahma Muhurta (early morning) and wear clean clothes
- Set up an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha in your home temple
- Offer Durva grass, red flowers, modak, and laddus to Lord Ganesha
- Chant the mantra “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”
- Recite the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat story
- In the evening, offer Arghya after moon sighting
- Break the fast only after performing the above rituals
Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Story
According to the Puranas, once Lord Shiva granted Lord Ganesha a boon that whoever observes the fast on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi will have all their troubles removed. Since then, the practice of observing Sankashti Chaturthi began. This story teaches devotees patience, faith, and devotion.
Benefits of Observing Sankashti Chaturthi
Observing the Sankashti Chaturthi fast provides numerous spiritual and worldly benefits:
- Removes obstacles and hardships in life
- Brings success in career and business
- Ensures peace and harmony in married life
- Fulfills desires for children
- Reduces mental stress and eliminates negative energy
Special Significance of Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi
When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is known as Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi. This day is considered extremely auspicious, and the merit of observing the fast on this day increases manifold.
Sankashti Chaturthi is not just a fast but a symbol of devotion, patience, and faith. With Lord Ganesha’s blessings, this fast has the power to remove all obstacles in life. Those seeking happiness, peace, and success in life should observe the Sankashti Chaturthi fast regularly.