Sankashti Chaturthi

Sankashti Chaturthi means "the Chaturthi that removes difficult troubles" and is dedicated to Ganesha in his form as Sankatahara. Observed on the Krishna Chaturthi (4th day after full moon) of every lunar month, the vrat requires fasting from sunrise until moonrise. The most powerful Sankashti of the year is Angarki Sankashti — when this Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday (Angaraka being Mars, ruler of Tuesday).

🔔 Puja Vidhi

Wake before sunrise, bathe, wear red or yellow
Perform Ganesh Chalisa recitation at dawn
Fast completely through the day (or fruit fast for beginners)
Evening puja: offer 21 durva grass blades, 21 modaks/laddoos, red flowers, and dhoop
After moon-sighting, offer arghya to Chandra with the Sankashti Ganesh mantra
Break fast with the modak prasad

📜 Rules

Moon-sighting is mandatory before breaking the fast — if moon is not visible, wait or check panchang for moonrise time
Silent chanting during afternoon strengthens the vrat
Avoid onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian food
Angarki Sankashti is especially auspicious — plan for it in advance

Read the full vrat katha

📖 Open the katha in the Devotional Library

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if the moon is not visible due to clouds? +

Traditionally, you can look at the moon's reflection in water or continue the fast until moonrise is confirmed by panchang. The intention completes the vrat.

Can women observe Sankashti during their monthly cycle? +

Traditionally the vrat is paused for those days; make up the vrat on the next Sankashti.