Sankashti Chaturthi, observed every month in the Hindu calendar, holds a special place. This fast is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, revered as the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta) and the reliever of distress (Sankatmochana). The Chaturthi of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Ashadha is called "Krishnapingala Sankashti Chaturthi." Observing this fast with devotion and following prescribed rituals is believed to alleviate life's difficulties and pave the way for happiness and prosperity.
Religious Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi
The word "Sankashti" signifies "remover of distress." This date is considered particularly auspicious for devotees facing hardships. According to mythological beliefs, fasting on this day pleases Lord Ganesha, who then removes all sorrows of his devotees.
This fast is particularly performed for desired progeny, increased intellect and wisdom, family happiness, and financial prosperity. Sankashti Chaturthi is considered especially fruitful when it falls on a Tuesday or Saturday, but the Chaturthi of every month is also highly auspicious.
Ganesha Puja: Why First?
Lord Ganesha is known as the "Pratham Poojya" deity. Any auspicious task or worship begins with the worship of Ganesha. His blessings symbolize success, good fortune, and a smooth life. This is why special puja is performed for Ganesha on Sankashti Chaturthi.
Sankashti Chaturthi Date and Auspicious Muhurat (2025)
According to the Panchang:
- Tithi Begins: June 14, 2025, 03:46 PM
- Tithi Ends: June 15, 2025, 03:51 PM
Best Time for Puja: After sighting the moon, i.e., during the night of the Chaturthi Tithi, worshipping Ganesha and offering Arghya (water offering) to the moon is considered most auspicious.
Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Method
1. Purification and Sankalpa (Resolution)
- Take a bath in the morning and wear clean clothes.
- Clean the puja place and spread a red or yellow cloth on a low stool (Chauki).
- Establish the idol or picture of Lord Ganesha.
- With folded hands, make a resolution to observe the fast.
2. Puja with Materials
- Offer yellow flowers, Durva grass, Akshat (rice), and yellow sandalwood to Lord Ganesha.
- Offer Modak, Laddu, or jaggery as Prasad (offering) – these are his favorite sweets.
- Light a lamp (Deepak) and offer incense sticks (Agarbatti).
3. Mantras and Stotra Recitation
- Recite the mantra 'Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha' 108 times.
- Alternatively, recite Ganesha Atharvashirsha, Sankatnashan Stotra, or Ganesha Chalisa.
4. Aarti and Arghya
- Perform Aarti (worship with devotional songs) for Ganesha in the evening.
- After the moonrise, offer water (Arghya) to the moon and pray.
5. Vrat Parana (Breaking the Fast)
- After offering Arghya to the moon, consume light fruits or break the fast as per the prescribed rules.
Benefits of Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat
1. Liberation from Distress
Observing this fast removes life's difficulties and leads to success.
2. Attaining Progeny
Childless couples who observe this fast with proper rituals can attain the blessing of children.
3. Enhancement of Intellect and Wisdom
Students and those facing career challenges can gain mental strength by observing this fast.
4. Health Benefits
This fast is believed to bestow good health and longevity.
5. Peace and Prosperity in the Family
The home of one who observes Sankashti Vrat remains filled with peace and happiness, and poverty is dispelled.
Mythological Story
According to mythology, once, Mother Parvati instructed Ganesha to observe a fast on Chaturthi. Ganesha performed the fast with utmost devotion, and as a result, he attained a venerated position in the three worlds. Since then, this date has been considered highly significant for fasting and worship.
The Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat is not merely a religious tradition but a symbol of faith, discipline, and spiritual purification. This day is an excellent opportunity to express devotion to Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings for happiness and peace in life.
