How to do fasting on Sankashti Chaturthi
Posted on August 21, 2024
Fasting on Sankashti Chaturthi is a common practice among devotees of Lord Ganesha. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to observe this fast:
1. Pre-Fasting Preparations
Choose a Date: Sankashti Chaturthi occurs every month on the 4th day after the full moon (Krishna Paksha) and is more significant if it falls on a Tuesday, known as Angarika Sankashti Chaturthi.
Mental Preparation: Begin by mentally preparing yourself for the fast. Reflect on the purpose of the fast and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha.
2. The Day of the Fast
Morning Rituals:
Wake Up Early: Rise early before sunrise, take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
Prayer and Meditation: Offer prayers to Lord Ganesha. Chant Ganesha mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah” or recite the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha.
Fasting:
Strict Fast: Some devotees observe a strict fast, consuming only water throughout the day.
Partial Fast: Others may choose a partial fast, consuming fruits, milk, and Sabudana (tapioca) or fasting-friendly foods.
Avoid: Non-vegetarian food, onions, garlic, and grains.
3. Evening Rituals
Moonrise Puja:
Observe the Moon: The fast is broken after sighting the moon in the evening.
Offer Arghya: Offer water (Arghya) to the moon while reciting the moon mantra.
Perform Ganesh Puja: Light a lamp and incense, offer flowers, fruits, and sweets (especially Modak, Lord Ganesha’s favorite) to Lord Ganesha. Recite the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha or listen to the story of the fast.
4. Breaking the Fast
After the puja, consume the Prasad and then have a simple, light meal. Avoid overeating after breaking the fast.
5. End of the Day
Gratitude: End the day with a prayer expressing gratitude to Lord Ganesha for his blessings and protection.
Observing Sankashti Chaturthi fast with devotion and sincerity is believed to remove obstacles, bring peace, and fulfill wishes.
Categories: Sankashti Chaturthi Dates & Time
