Vinayak Chaturthi 2025 – The Festival of New Beginnings

Vinayak Chaturthi, also known as Ganesh Chaturthi, is celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the lunar month of Bhadrapada. In 2025, it falls on Thursday, September 25. The Chaturthi Tithi begins early morning at 7:06 AM and ends at 9:33 AM on the following day. The auspicious time for Ganesh Puja (Muhurta) is between 11:01 AM and 1:26 PM.

Significance of Vinayak Chaturthi

Vinayak Chaturthi is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god who removes obstacles and blesses devotees with wisdom, prosperity, and success. The word “Vinayak” means “the Supreme Leader” or “the remover of obstacles.” Also known as Varad Vinayaka Chaturthi (“Varad” meaning boon-giving), this festival is believed to grant the sincere devotees their wishes and foster spiritual growth.

Mythological Background

Lord Ganesha is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is worshipped as the god of beginnings and remover of obstacles. According to legend, his birth and subsequent blessing of devotees on this day marks an auspicious start to new endeavors. Vinayak Chaturthi holds immense religious importance as it marks the day when Ganesha was welcomed to the world with great devotion and celebrations.

How is Vinayak Chaturthi Celebrated?

• Devotees wake up early, take a bath, and wear fresh clothes.

• Homes and temples are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with flowers and rangoli.

• An idol or picture of Lord Ganesha is installed at homes, offices, and public places.

• Special pujas are performed which include chanting Ganesh mantras, offering modaks (favorite sweets), fruits, flowers, and incense.

• Fasting is observed by many devotees to seek Ganesha’s blessings.

• The day concludes with Aarti and spreading blessings for prosperity, peace, and success.

Rituals and Muhurat

The Ganesh puja must be done during the auspicious muhurat to maximize blessings. In 2025, the ideal time is from 11:01 AM to 1:26 PM on September 25. Devotees recite the Ganesh Atharvashirsha, Ganesh Stotra, and other prayers during this time for spiritual benefits and relief from difficulties.

Regional Celebrations and Customs

While Vinayak Chaturthi is celebrated across India, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh host some of the grandest festivities. Here, the festival spans 10-11 days, culminating with the Ganesh Visarjan (immersion of the idol) on Anant Chaturdashi. In other places, the puja might be a single-day event focusing on prayers and offerings.

Importance in Daily Life

Lord Ganesha’s blessings are sought at the start of every new venture — be it a wedding, the start of a business, or a travel journey. Vinayak Chaturthi reminds devotees of the power of faith, wisdom, and determination to overcome challenges.