Sankashti Chaturthi 2025: Vrat, Puja Vidhi, Story & Benefits

Sankashti Chaturthi is a sacred day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every month in the Hindu calendar. It is believed that observing fasts and performing rituals on this day can remove obstacles, fulfill desires, and bring prosperity and happiness.

Religious Significance

Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity, is worshipped on Sankashti Chaturthi with utmost devotion. Devotees believe that observing the fast and offering prayers on this day invokes Ganesha’s blessings, bringing success in personal and professional life.

The day is also associated with the moon’s influence. It is believed that those who worship Lord Ganesha on Sankashti Chaturthi are protected from troubles and negative energies caused by planetary positions.

When is Sankashti Chaturthi Observed?

Sankashti Chaturthi is observed on the fourth day of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha) each month. If it falls on a Tuesday, it is called Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi, which is considered especially auspicious.

Fasting and Rituals

Devotees usually observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise. Some may consume fruits and milk, while others may abstain from food entirely. The fast is broken after sighting the moon and offering prayers to Lord Ganesha.

Key rituals include:

• Taking a bath early in the morning.

• Cleaning the place of worship.

• Offering flowers, durva grass, modaks, and sweets to Lord Ganesha.

• Reciting Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha and chanting Ganesha mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”.

• Observing silence or maintaining a peaceful environment during prayers.

Devotional Practices

• Reading or listening to the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha.

• Visiting Ganesha temples, especially on Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi.

• Donating to the needy, which is considered auspicious on this day.

Benefits of Observing Sankashti Chaturthi

Observing Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to:

1. Remove obstacles in career, education, and personal life.

2. Bring peace, prosperity, and mental clarity.

3. Protect devotees from negative influences and bad luck.

4. Fulfill sincere wishes and desires of the heart.

Popular Offerings

• Modak (sweet dumplings) – considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite.

• Durva Grass – an essential offering.

• Fruits, especially bananas.

• Sweets like laddoo or peda.

Sankashti Chaturthi is more than just a monthly fast; it is an opportunity to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for wisdom, prosperity, and removal of obstacles. Observing the vrat with devotion and sincerity can bring immense spiritual and worldly benefits.