Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha

English

**The Story:**

In Kailasa, Parvati was playing dice with Shiva. To decide the outcome, they placed a young boy — a passing Brahmin child — as witness. When Parvati won, the boy declared Shiva the winner. Angered by his lie, Parvati cursed him with leprosy and lameness.

The boy pleaded forgiveness. Parvati relented and said: "Observe Sankashti Chaturthi with devotion — the Chaturthi of Krishna paksha of every month. Fast until moonrise. Worship Ganesha. Offer 21 durva grass and 21 modaks. Your affliction will lift."

The boy observed 21 consecutive Sankashti vrats. His body was restored — beautiful, whole, and healthy. He returned to his village, married a princess, and lived long in prosperity.

**Ritual:** Fast from sunrise. Perform Ganesha puja in the evening. Offer 21 durva, 21 modaks (or laddoos). Recite this katha. See the moon rise. Offer arghya to Chandra with the Sankashti Ganesh Stotra. Break fast after moon-darshan.

**Special Sankashtis:** Angarki Sankashti (Tuesday Sankashti) is especially powerful.