Sankashti Chaturthi September 2024 Date, Significance, Rituals
Posted on August 25, 2024
Sankashti Chaturthi September 2024
Date and Tithi Time
Date: September 21, Saturday.
Tithi Time: September 20, 09:15 PM – September 21, 06:14 PM.
What is Sankashti Chaturthi?
Understanding the Meaning of Sankashti Chaturthi
Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankatahara Chaturthi, is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon (Krishna Paksha) each month, it is considered an auspicious day for overcoming difficulties and seeking divine blessings.
The Importance of Sankashti Chaturthi in Hindu Culture
This day holds special significance for devotees of Lord Ganesha, who believe that observing the fast on Sankashti Chaturthi helps in removing obstacles, bringing prosperity, and ensuring success in all endeavors. It is particularly important in Maharashtra and South India.
Rituals and Customs of Sankashti Chaturthi
Fasting and Prayers on Sankashti Chaturthi
Devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise until moonrise. They break the fast only after sighting the moon and offering prayers to Lord Ganesha. Special rituals and pujas are performed, often accompanied by chanting of the Ganesha Atharvasirsha or other sacred hymns.
Offering Modak and Other Sweets to Lord Ganesha
Modak, a sweet dumpling made from rice flour, coconut, and jaggery, is a favorite offering to Lord Ganesha on this day. Other offerings include durva grass, red flowers, and fruits, which are believed to please the deity.
Moon Sighting and Ganapati Atharvasirsha Recitation
Moon sighting is a crucial aspect of the Sankashti Chaturthi rituals. Devotees wait for the moon to rise and then offer their prayers. The recitation of the Ganapati Atharvasirsha is believed to bring peace and prosperity.
Sankashti Chaturthi Dates and Significance Throughout the Year
Monthly Observance of Sankashti Chaturthi
Sankashti Chaturthi is observed every month, with each one having a unique significance based on the nakshatra and day of the week. For instance, Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi, which falls on a Tuesday, is considered highly auspicious.
Special Sankashti Chaturthi Days: Angaraki Sankashti
Angaraki Sankashti is celebrated with even greater fervor as it is believed that prayers and fasts observed on this day are particularly powerful. It occurs when Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday.
The Spiritual Benefits of Observing Sankashti Chaturthi
Removing Obstacles and Achieving Success
Observing Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to remove obstacles in one’s life and lead to success and prosperity. Devotees seek blessings for overcoming personal and professional challenges.
Promoting Health and Well-being
Many devotees believe that fasting on this day not only has spiritual benefits but also promotes health and well-being by cleansing the body and mind.
Strengthening Devotion to Lord Ganesha
Regular observance of Sankashti Chaturthi strengthens one’s devotion to Lord Ganesha, deepening the spiritual connection and ensuring divine guidance in all aspects of life.