Sankashti Chaturthi: The vrat is observed every month on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha, and in 2025 from September to December, devotees fast from sunrise until moonrise, concluding the ritual with prayers to Lord Ganesha after sighting the moon.
Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankatahara Chaturthi, is a highly revered fasting day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Observed every month on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon), it holds deep spiritual significance. Devotees believe that by observing this vrat (fast), one can seek relief from obstacles, attain prosperity, and invite peace and happiness into life. The fast is observed from sunrise to moonrise, and it is only broken after sighting the moon and performing Ganesha puja in the evening.
Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi
The word Sankashti itself means “deliverance from difficulties.” Lord Ganesha, known as Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles), is worshipped on this day to seek blessings for removing hindrances in personal, professional, and spiritual life. Observing Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to bring good fortune, health, and success. Each Sankashti Chaturthi is associated with a unique name of Lord Ganesha and a special story from Hindu scriptures, which devotees read or listen to during the vrat. These stories, often called vrat kathas, inspire devotees to lead a righteous life, full of devotion and discipline.
Rituals of Sankashti Chaturthi
On this auspicious day, devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and observe a fast throughout the day. Most devotees consume only fruits, roots, and milk products, avoiding grains and cereals. Some observe a strict nirjal vrat, where they abstain even from water until the moon is sighted. In the evening, before moonrise, devotees prepare for the puja by setting up an idol or image of Lord Ganesha. Offerings such as durva grass, modaks (sweet dumplings), fruits, and flowers are placed before the deity. Special prayers and the recitation of the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha are performed. After sighting the moon, the fast is broken by offering arghya (water) to the moon and then consuming the prasad.
A brass puja thali decorated with flowers, diya, incense sticks, kumkum, and turmeric used in Hindu worship rituals and festivals.During the puja, devotees also chant mantras and recite Ganesha stotras like the Ganapati Atharvashirsha. Lighting diyas (lamps) and performing aarti enhances the spiritual atmosphere. Many people also visit Ganesha temples on this day, where special rituals and bhajans are organized.
Importance of Moonrise Time
The moonrise time is particularly important on Sankashti Chaturthi. The fast can only be broken after the devotee has sighted the moon. Hence, knowing the exact timing helps devotees plan their puja rituals properly. According to traditions, the moon is considered a witness to the devotion of the vrat, and hence offering prayers at that moment makes the vrat complete and fruitful. Families often gather together during the moonrise, making it a communal and joyous moment of devotion.
Upcoming Sankashti Chaturthi 2025
| Date | Day | Month / Paksha | Moonrise Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 September 2025 | Wednesday | Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha 3 | 08:34 PM |
| 10 October 2025 | Friday | Ashwin Krishna Paksha 4 | 08:53 PM |
| 08 November 2025 | Saturday | Kartik Krishna Paksha 3–4 | 08:41 PM |
| 07 December 2025 | Sunday | Margashirsha Krishna Paksha 3 | 08:34 PM |
Why Devotees Follow This Vrat
The Sankashti Chaturthi vrat is considered especially powerful for those facing challenges, health issues, or difficulties in achieving their goals. By worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day, devotees not only strengthen their spiritual discipline but also reinforce their faith in divine protection. The vrat instills patience, self-control, and devotion, which are essential aspects of spiritual growth. Many devotees also believe that consistent observance of this vrat can bring peace to the family, resolve financial troubles, and improve overall wellbeing.
Stories and Cultural Traditions
Hindu scriptures are filled with inspiring stories linked to Sankashti Chaturthi. Each month’s Sankashti has a different name and associated story of Lord Ganesha’s divine interventions, often narrated as part of the vrat katha. These stories highlight Ganesha’s wisdom, strength, and compassion, teaching moral lessons and emphasizing the victory of devotion over difficulties. In Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, this vrat is observed with great enthusiasm. In some regions, temples organize special events, and devotees gather in large numbers to participate in collective prayers and aarti.
Sankashti Chaturthi is not only a spiritual observance but also a cultural tradition that strengthens family and community bonds. Children and elders alike participate, ensuring that the faith and rituals are passed on to future generations.
By keeping track of these Sankashti Chaturthi dates and moonrise timings in 2025, devotees can observe the vrat with devotion and precision. Each vrat is a divine opportunity to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings, listen to inspiring stories, and move forward on the path of peace, success, and spiritual fulfillment.
आगामी संकष्टी चतुर्थी 2025 | Sankashta Chaturthi 2025 in hindi
Last Updated on September 1, 2025 by Hinditerminal.com
