Sankashti Chaturthi Ganesha Puja is a monthly Hindu ritual dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and success. This auspicious day falls on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) every month. Among all Chaturthis, the one in the month of Magha (January–February) is known as Sankashti Maha Chaturthi and is considered most powerful.
The word “Sankashti” means “deliverance from troubles” — hence, it is believed that worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day relieves devotees of difficulties and brings peace, prosperity, and good health.
Devotees observe a strict fast (vrat) from sunrise to moonrise. The fast may be nirjala (without water) or phalahar (fruits and milk) depending on one’s capacity and faith. The puja is performed in the evening after sighting the moon, which is an essential part of the ritual.
The Sankashti Chaturthi Puja involves placing an idol or image of Lord Ganesha, adorning it with flowers, durva grass, and modaks or laddus as offerings. Incense, lamp, and naivedyam are offered along with the chanting of Ganesha mantras like:
- “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”
- Sankashtanashana Ganesha Stotra
- Ganesha Ashtottara Shatanamavali
The moon is then sighted and arghya (water offering) is made to Chandra (Moon God), followed by the moonrise aarti of Lord Ganesha. Reading the Sankashti Vrat Katha (a specific story associated with the month’s Chaturthi) is also an integral part of the observance.
Sankashti Chaturthi Ganesha Puja is a powerful spiritual practice that strengthens devotion, removes hurdles in life, and ensures the success and well-being of the devotee.
