Introduction: Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankatahara Chaturthi, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with utmost devotion and enthusiasm. This auspicious day holds immense importance as devotees seek blessings and divine intervention from Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of Sankashti Chaturthi, discuss its importance, provide the date for the festival in 2023, share Sankashti Chaturthi images, and conclude with some heartwarming wishes to share with your family and friends.
What is Sankashti Chaturthi?
Sankashti Chaturthi is a Hindu festival celebrated every month on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon). However, the Sankashti Chaturthi that falls in the month of Magha (January/February) and Bhadrapada (August/September) holds special significance. These two Chaturthi days are known as Angarki Chaturthi and are considered highly auspicious.
Significance and Importance of Sankashti Chaturthi
Worship of Lord Ganesha: Sankashti Chaturthi is primarily dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity revered as the harbinger of good fortune, wisdom, and success. Devotees observe this day to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, seeking his grace in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals.
Vrat (Fasting) and Rituals: On Sankashti Chaturthi, devotees observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise, abstaining from food and water throughout the day. They perform special rituals, including prayers, chanting of sacred mantras, and offerings to Lord Ganesha.
Removal of Obstacles: It is believed that observing Sankashti Chaturthi with devotion and sincerity can help remove various obstacles and challenges from one’s life. Devotees pray to Lord Ganesha to eliminate difficulties, bring success, and grant overall well-being.
Celebrating Sankashti Chaturthi
Here are some ways to celebrate and observe this sacred festival.
Preparations– Cleanse and decorate your home’s puja area or designated space with flowers, rangoli, and festive decorations. Place a small idol or picture of Lord Ganesha in the puja area, adorned with flowers and garlands.
Fasting: Observing a fast on Sankashti Chaturthi is customary. Fast from sunrise to moonrise, refraining from consuming any food or water during this period. If fasting is impossible, you can opt for a partial fast or eat simple vegetarian meals.Seek guidance from a priest or consult a religious calendar to determine the specific timings for the fast.
Morning Rituals: Wake up early and take a purifying bath.Wear clean and traditional attire. Begin the day with prayers and meditation to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha.
Puja Ceremony: Perform the Ganesh puja in the evening or at the moonrise, as per the prescribed timing. Light incense sticks and offer Lord Ganesha flowers, fruits, sweets (modak), and other traditional delicacies. Recite hymns, mantras, and slokas dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The popular Ganesh Chalisa and Ganesh Atharvashirsha are often chanted during this time.
Offer arati (waving of lit camphor or lamps) to Lord Ganesha, accompanied by singing devotional songs or bhajans.
Moon Sighting: After the puja, go outside to a clear space where the moon is visible. Offer prayers to the moon, seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, and express gratitude.Perform arati to the moon using camphor or lamps.
Breaking the Fast: Conclude the fast by consuming prasadam, the blessed food offered to Lord Ganesha during the puja. Share the prasadam with your family and friends, spreading joy and blessings.
Seek Blessings: Visit a nearby Ganesha temple or attend community gatherings dedicated to Lord Ganesha to seek his blessings and participate in the festive atmosphere.Engage in charitable activities or donations to express gratitude and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha.
Remember, while the above steps provide a general guideline, it is important to follow your family traditions and consult a priest or religious authority for specific rituals and customs associated with Sankashti Chaturthi in your region.
Sankashti Chaturthi Images
Sankashti Chaturthi Wishes for Family and Friends
1.May Lord Ganesha shower his divine blessings upon you and remove all the obstacles from your path. Wishing you a blessed Sankashti Chaturthi!
2. May Lord Ganesha’s wisdom and blessings guide you toward success and happiness on this auspicious day.
3. As we celebrate Sankashti Chaturthi, may Lord Ganesha’s divine presence fill your life with joy, peace, and prosperity. Have a blessed day!
4. May Lord Ganesha bless you with strength and perseverance to overcome all challenges and lead a life of positivity and success. Happy Sankashti Chaturthi!
5. On this sacred occasion, may Lord Ganesha bless you and fulfill all your wishes. Wishing you a joyful and blissful Sankashti Chaturthi!
Conclusion
Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, observed with immense devotion by Hindu devotees. By observing fasts, performing rituals, and seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha, devotees aim to remove obstacles and attain success in their endeavors. As you celebrate Sankashti Chaturthi with your loved ones, may Lord Ganesha’s blessings shower you, granting you happiness, prosperity, and a life free from obstacles.