Significance
Sankashti Chaturthi is the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi of every month, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Fasting is observed and broken after moonrise. It is believed to remove obstacles (sankat).
Mythology & Legend
According to the Shiva Purana, Ganesha is the remover of obstacles. Observing Sankashti Chaturthi with devotion is said to please him and remove difficulties. The moon (Chandra) is associated with the legend of Ganesha and the moon's curse.
Rituals & Observances
- Observe a full-day fast (no grains) until moonrise.
- Offer modak, flowers, and durva to Ganesha; chant Ganesha mantras.
- After moonrise, sight the moon and then offer puja to Ganesha.
- Break the fast with prasad and a light meal.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः
oṃ gaṃ gaṇapataye namaḥ
Salutations to Ganesha
Traditional Foods
- ●Modak
- ●Fruits
- ●Break after moonrise
Regional Variations
Maharashtra(संकष्टी चतुर्थी)
Monthly Ganesha vrat
South India(சங்கட ஹர சதுர்த்தி)
Sankatahara Chaturthi
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Fast until moonrise
- ✓Worship Ganesha
- ✓Offer modak
- ✓Break after moon sighting
Don'ts
- ✗Do not eat grains before moonrise
- ✗Avoid looking at the moon before puja in some traditions
- ✗Do not skip puja