Sakat Chauth Vrat is an extremely important fast in Hinduism, observed every year on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha. This vrat is dedicated especially to the worship of Lord Ganesha and the Moon God. Mothers observe a strict fast on this day, praying for the long life and well-being of their children. Listening to and observing the Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha is considered an integral part of the vrat. Let’s delve into the sacred story of this vrat.
Table of Contents
The Story of Sakat Chauth Vrat
The Tale of the Merchant’s Wife
According to ancient legend, a merchant and his wife lived in a town. They did not believe in religious practices, and as a result, they were childless. One day, the merchant’s wife visited her neighbor’s house, where the neighbor was observing the Sakat Chauth Vrat and narrating its story. The merchant’s wife asked, “Whose story is this?” The neighbor replied, “This is the story of Sakat Chauth. Observing this vrat brings blessings of wealth, prosperity, and children.”
The merchant’s wife thought to herself, “If I conceive, I will offer 1.25 kg of sesame sweets (tilkut) and observe the Chauth Vrat.” By Lord Ganesha’s grace, she became pregnant and vowed to offer 2.5 kg of tilkut if she had a son. When she gave birth to a son, she promised to offer 5.25 kg of tilkut when her son got married.
Years later, her son’s marriage was arranged, but the merchant’s wife forgot her vow. This angered the deity of Chauth, who made her son disappear during the wedding ceremony. The distraught merchant’s wife pleaded to Lord Ganesha for forgiveness, promising to offer 125 kg of tilkut if her son returned safely. By Lord Ganesha’s grace, her son reappeared, and the marriage was celebrated grandly. The merchant’s wife fulfilled her vow, and since then, the vrat has become widely popular.
The Story of Overcoming Hardships
It is said that during the Satya Yuga, there was a potter in King Harishchandra’s kingdom whose clay pots were not firing properly. A priest advised him to sacrifice a child to resolve this issue. The potter captured a child and placed him in the kiln on the day of Sakat Chauth. However, the child’s mother prayed earnestly to Lord Ganesha.
The next morning, the potter was astonished to find the pots perfectly fired and the child unharmed. This incident terrified the potter, and he confessed everything to the king. When the mother and child were summoned, the mother narrated the glory of Sakat Chauth Vrat. Since then, mothers have observed this vrat for the longevity and prosperity of their children.
The Significance of Sakat Chauth Vrat
Observing this vrat brings peace and prosperity to the family. Lord Ganesha, known as the remover of obstacles, alleviates all difficulties on this day. Listening to and narrating the Sakat Chauth Katha brings auspiciousness and blessings to life.
Conclusion
The Sakat Chauth Vrat holds immense significance as it reflects a mother’s love and devotion toward her children. This vrat not only embodies religious faith but also instills positive energy in life. May Lord Ganesha bless all devotees and fill their lives with happiness and prosperity.
Read this story in hindi click here.
