Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankatahara Chaturthi, is an auspicious Hindu festival celebrated in honor of Lord Ganesha. It falls on the fourth day of the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu calendar month of Magha. This year, Sankashti Chaturthi will be observed on Monday, 10th January 2022. The festival holds great significance for devotees of Lord Ganesha, who believe that observing this fast and performing rituals on this day can help remove obstacles and bring prosperity and success in their lives.
Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi:
Sankashti Chaturthi is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, knowledge, and prosperity. It is believed that observing a fast on this day and performing puja rituals can help devotees overcome challenges, difficulties, and obstacles in their lives. The word “Sankashti” means “deliverance from troubles,” and hence this day is dedicated to seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha for the removal of all obstacles and hurdles.
According to Hindu mythology, Sankashti Chaturthi is celebrated to commemorate the day when Lord Ganesha defeated the demon Vighnasura, who was creating obstacles in the lives of people. It is believed that by observing this fast and offering prayers to Lord Ganesha with devotion and sincerity, one can seek his blessings for success, prosperity, and happiness.
Rituals of Sankashti Chaturthi:
Devotees observe a strict fast on Sankashti Chaturthi, abstaining from consuming food and water from sunrise to moonrise. The fast is broken only after sighting the moon in the evening. The fasting period is known as “Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat” and is believed to bring immense benefits to the devotees who observe it with dedication and faith.
On the day of Sankashti Chaturthi, devotees wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. They then perform puja rituals to Lord Ganesha, including offering flowers, incense, lamps, and sweets. Devotees also recite prayers, chant mantras, and read the story of Lord Ganesha to seek his blessings and grace.
In the evening, after sighting the moon, devotees break their fast by consuming prasad (food offered to the deity) and other traditional sweets. It is believed that by observing this fast and performing the rituals with devotion, one can receive the blessings of Lord Ganesha and fulfill their wishes.
FAQs about Sankashti Chaturthi:
1. Is it necessary to observe a strict fast on Sankashti Chaturthi?
Answer: While observing a fast is recommended on Sankashti Chaturthi, it is not mandatory. Devotees can choose to observe a partial fast by consuming fruits, milk, and other light foods if they are unable to observe a strict fast.
2. Can pregnant women and individuals with health issues observe the fast on Sankashti Chaturthi?
Answer: Pregnant women and individuals with health issues are advised to consult their healthcare provider before observing the fast on Sankashti Chaturthi. They can choose to perform the puja rituals and offer prayers to Lord Ganesha without fasting.
3. What are the benefits of observing the Sankashti Chaturthi fast?
Answer: Observing the Sankashti Chaturthi fast is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and success in the lives of devotees. It is said to help overcome obstacles, difficulties, and challenges and fulfill one’s wishes and desires.
4. Can non-Hindus also observe Sankashti Chaturthi?
Answer: Sankashti Chaturthi is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, but people from all faiths and backgrounds can participate in the celebrations and seek the blessings of the deity. The festival promotes unity, peace, and harmony among all individuals.
In conclusion, Sankashti Chaturthi is a sacred Hindu festival that holds great significance for devotees of Lord Ganesha. By observing the fast, performing puja rituals, and seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha on this auspicious day, devotees can overcome obstacles, challenges, and difficulties in their lives and attain success, prosperity, and happiness. May Lord Ganesha bless us all with his grace and divine presence on Sankashti Chaturthi 2022!