Significance
Vinayaka Chaturthi is the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of every month, dedicated to Ganesha. It is a day of worship and fasting for wisdom and removal of obstacles.
Mythology & Legend
According to the Shiva Purana, Ganesha was born on Chaturthi. Monthly observance pleases him and ensures success in endeavours. The name Vinayaka means "remover of obstacles".
Rituals & Observances
- Observe a partial or full fast; bathe at sunrise.
- Offer modak, flowers, durva grass, and coconut to Ganesha.
- Chant Ganesha mantras and stotras; perform aarti.
- Break the fast after puja with prasad.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः
oṃ gaṃ gaṇapataye namaḥ
Salutations to Ganesha
Traditional Foods
- ●Modak
- ●Ladoo
- ●Fruits
- ●Prasad
Regional Variations
South India(வினாயக சதுர்த்தி)
Monthly Ganesha puja
Maharashtra(विनायक चतुर्थी)
Same as Sankashti observance
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Worship Ganesha
- ✓Offer modak
- ✓Chant mantras
- ✓Observe fast if possible
Don'ts
- ✗Do not disrespect Ganesha
- ✗Avoid looking at the moon on Chaturthi in some beliefs
- ✗Do not skip puja