Sankatahara Chaturthi is a special occasion dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom and prosperity. This puja is observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of both the waxing and waning phases of the moon every month, but it holds special significance when it falls on the Chaturthi of the waxing moon. The word “Sankatahara” means “removal of difficulties,” and this day is observed by devotees to seek Ganesha’s blessings to overcome hurdles in life and to ensure prosperity, success, and harmony.
Significance of Sankatahara Chaturthi:
Sankatahara Chaturthi is particularly observed by those who are facing difficulties or obstacles in their personal or professional lives. Devotees believe that by worshiping Lord Ganesha on this day, they can remove barriers and challenges and receive divine blessings for success in all their endeavors.
Rituals and Offerings:
- Preparation: The puja begins by cleaning and purifying the worship space. A clean and decorated altar is set up with an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha. The idol is often adorned with flowers, tulsi leaves, incense, and fruits such as modaks (Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet).
- Ganesha Stotra and Mantras: Devotees chant sacred prayers and mantras, most notably the Ganapati Atharvashirsha and Om Gan Ganapataye Namah. These mantras are recited to invoke Lord Ganesha’s presence and seek his blessings.
- Offering Modaks and Sweets: Modaks, which are considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite delicacy, are offered during the puja, along with other sweets like laddus and fruits.
- Fasting and Prayers: Devotees often observe a fast on this day and offer special prayers for removal of obstacles and to seek divine guidance and blessings for success and prosperity. The entire family usually participates in the puja.
- Concluding the Puja: The puja concludes with the offering of aarti and the distribution of prasad to the devotees present. The faithful believe that by performing Sankatahara Chaturthi Puja with devotion, Lord Ganesha will remove all the obstacles and bless them with a smooth, prosperous journey ahead.
