Sankashti Chaturthi May 2024 Date, Time: Significance of Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi
Posted on May 20, 2024
Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the deity revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. This day falls on the fourth day after the full moon (Purnima) in the lunar month, and its occurrence varies each month. When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is referred to as Angarika Sankashti Chaturthi and holds even greater importance.
Sankashti Chaturthi May 2024 Date: May 26, Sunday.
Sankashti Chaturthi May 2024 Tithi Time: May 26, 6:06 pm – May 27, 4:54 pm.
Significance of Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi:
The term “Ekadanta” refers to one of the many names of Lord Ganesha, meaning “one with a single tusk.” This name symbolizes Ganesha’s unique appearance and his association with overcoming dualities and balancing life’s contradictions. Observing Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to bring relief from problems and challenges, ensuring success, prosperity, and peace in the devotees’ lives.
Rituals and Observance:
- Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast on this day, refraining from consuming any grains. The fast is typically broken only after sighting the moon and performing the Ganesh puja in the evening.
- Ganesh Puja: Special prayers and offerings are made to Lord Ganesha. Devotees chant Vedic hymns and mantras dedicated to Ganesha, such as the “Ganapati Atharvasirsha,” to invoke his blessings.
- Offerings: Modaks (sweet dumplings), which are considered Ganesha’s favorite, along with durva grass, fresh flowers, and fruits, are offered during the puja.
- Moon Sighting: The fast concludes after the moon is sighted. Devotees then offer their prayers to the moon before consuming any food.
- Charity: Acts of charity and helping the needy are encouraged on this day as a means to earn good karma and blessings from Lord Ganesha.
Spiritual Importance:
Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi is not only a day of religious observance but also a time for introspection and spiritual growth. Devotees believe that by worshipping Ganesha with sincerity and devotion, they can rid themselves of negativity and pave the way for new beginnings and successes in life.
In conclusion, Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi is a deeply revered festival that encapsulates the essence of devotion, discipline, and divine blessings. It offers devotees an opportunity to seek Lord Ganesha’s guidance and protection, helping them navigate through life’s challenges with faith and resilience.