Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi, a sacred day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, will be observed on Wednesday, April 16th . This auspicious occasion holds great significance for devotees who seek the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha for the removal of obstacles and the fulfillment of desires. On this day, devotees engage in fasting, prayer, and the chanting of Ganesha's mantras, ensuring a spiritually enriching experience. It is a time to seek divine guidance, embrace tranquility, and gain strength to overcome life's challenges. Join in the celebration of this beloved festival, where devotion meets divine grace.
Significance & Importance of Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi holds profound significance in the spiritual realm, as it is believed to possess the transformative power to dispel obstacles from one’s life. The day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the deity known for removing barriers, both physical and spiritual. Devotees observe this auspicious day with great reverence, seeking Lord Ganesha’s divine blessings to overcome challenges and create a path for success. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and devotion, allowing individuals to invite positive changes into their lives.
The act of observing the Sankashti Vrat on this day is believed to bring immense spiritual rewards. Devotees fast and engage in rituals with pure intentions, trusting that their devotion will lead to the resolution of difficulties and the fulfillment of their desires. The essence of this fast is not only to seek material benefits but also to cultivate a deeper connection with Lord Ganesha, thereby strengthening one’s spiritual foundation.
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi provides an opportunity to foster inner peace and clarity. By dedicating oneself to prayers and acts of devotion, individuals can attain mental calm and emotional stability. The day serves as a reminder that, through devotion and discipline, one can find solutions to life's problems. It is a moment to realign with spiritual goals and reaffirm one’s faith in the divine.
This sacred day also encourages a sense of unity and togetherness among devotees. Coming together to worship Lord Ganesha on this auspicious occasion creates a collective bond of devotion, elevating the spiritual atmosphere. As we invoke Lord Ganesha’s grace and wisdom, we invite His divine presence into our lives, trusting that He will guide us through life’s trials and challenges.
In addition to seeking personal growth, this festival is a time to express gratitude for the blessings already received. It reminds us of the importance of humility, faith, and perseverance. As we celebrate Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi, let us seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for strength, prosperity, and enduring happiness, both for ourselves and for all beings around us.
Stories of Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi
The celebration of Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi is deeply intertwined with ancient stories and legends that highlight the power of Lord Ganesha in removing obstacles and granting prosperity. Various tales from Hindu mythology illuminate the significance of this day, showcasing the deep devotion of those who seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings. These stories not only reflect the benevolent nature of Lord Ganesha but also emphasize the importance of devotion, faith, and perseverance.
One of the most famous stories associated with Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi is the tale of Ganesha’s Victory over the Demon. Once, a powerful demon named Vikata was causing havoc in the heavens. His cruelty and strength posed a grave threat to the gods, and no one could defeat him. The gods, desperate for help, turned to Lord Shiva and Parvati. The divine parents of Lord Ganesha, filled with compassion for the world’s suffering, instructed Ganesha to confront the demon. Ganesha, armed with wisdom and strength, defeated Vikata and restored peace to the heavens. The day was subsequently marked as Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi, in remembrance of Ganesha's victory over the demon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Another story tells of a devout man who was suffering from numerous obstacles in his life, including financial hardships and personal struggles. In his despair, he sought the guidance of a priest who advised him to observe the Sankashti Chaturthi fast with sincerity and devotion. The man followed the instructions with unwavering faith, fasting and praying to Lord Ganesha. Miraculously, his life began to change for the better. His troubles were gradually alleviated, and his fortunes turned around. His story became an inspiration for many, reinforcing the belief that Lord Ganesha’s blessings can remove even the most daunting obstacles.
There is also a story about the Rishi Ganesha and the Devotee. A sage once found himself beset by many challenges while undertaking a long spiritual journey. One night, he sat in meditation, calling out to Lord Ganesha for assistance. Pleased with his dedication and sincerity, Lord Ganesha appeared to the sage and assured him that all his obstacles would be removed. The sage, grateful for Ganesha’s divine intervention, decided to fast on the day of Sankashti Chaturthi to honor the deity. By observing the fast, the sage overcame the hardships in his path and completed his journey successfully, further cementing the belief that the fast of Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi brings divine blessings and relief from life’s trials.
These stories serve as a reminder of the deep connection between faith, devotion, and divine intervention. They emphasize the belief that Lord Ganesha’s grace can work wonders in the lives of those who sincerely seek his blessings, particularly on the auspicious day of Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi. Whether it is in the form of overcoming personal struggles or gaining spiritual wisdom, these tales continue to inspire millions to observe the day with reverence and devotion.
Festival Date, Time, Muhurat & Tithi
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi will be observed on Wednesday, April 16th, 2025.
Chaturthi Tithi (4th lunar day) of the Chaitra month as per the lunar calendar.
Key Timings for Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi 2025:
-
Sankashti Chaturthi Muhurat:
06:00 AM to 08:15 AM (IST)
Duration: 2 Hours 15 Minutes -
Chaturthi Tithi begins
at 02:45 AM on April 16th (IST)
Chaturthi Tithi ends at 04:30 AM on April 17th (IST) -
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Muhurat:
06:00 AM to 08:15 AM (IST)
Duration: 2 Hours 15 Minutes
Note: Sunrise and sunset vary by region and date due to India's geographical diversity. For exact timings, refer to local astronomical data.
How to Celebrate Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi
Celebrating Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi begins with a day of preparation and devotion. Devotees wake up early in the morning and begin by taking a bath to purify themselves, followed by offering prayers to Lord Ganesha. The day is observed with fasting, and those who choose to fast refrain from eating grains and certain foods. It is common to consume fruits, nuts, and a simple diet of water or juice to maintain strength throughout the day.
The main ritual involves setting up an altar with an idol or image of Lord Ganesha. The idol is decorated with flowers, incense is lit, and a lamp is placed near the idol. Devotees then offer prayers and chant sacred mantras, especially the 'Ganapati Atharvasirsha' or 'Om Gan Ganapataye Namah,' seeking Lord Ganesha's blessings for the removal of obstacles. It is important to maintain focus and devotion during the prayers, creating a peaceful and meditative environment.
As the day progresses, devotees gather with family or community members to perform the Sankashti Chaturthi puja. The puja involves offerings of sweets, particularly modaks, which are Lord Ganesha’s favorite delicacy. After the puja, the fasting period continues until the moon is sighted. Upon sighting the moon, devotees offer prayers and break their fast, expressing gratitude for Lord Ganesha’s blessings. It is believed that observing the fast with complete devotion and discipline brings prosperity, peace, and the removal of obstacles in one’s life.
Lastly, the day ends with a sense of contentment and spiritual fulfillment. Devotees reflect on their day of worship and offer thanks to Lord Ganesha for the strength, wisdom, and blessings they have received. It is a time to reconnect with the divine and renew one's faith, knowing that Lord Ganesha will continue to provide guidance and protection in the days ahead.
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Vidhi (Puja Procedure)
The celebration of Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi begins with early morning preparations. Devotees wake up before sunrise and purify themselves by taking a bath. This ritual purifies the body and prepares the devotee for the sacred day ahead. After bathing, devotees wear clean clothes, preferably in auspicious colors, and prepare to set up the altar for the puja.
The next step is to establish a clean and serene space for the puja. Place a clean cloth on a raised platform or table, and position an idol or image of Lord Ganesha at the center. Decorate the idol with flowers, especially marigold, and offer incense and a lighted lamp to invoke Lord Ganesha’s divine presence. Some devotees also offer a fresh coconut or sugarcane, which are considered auspicious for the ritual.
The main part of the puja involves the chanting of prayers and mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The most common mantra is 'Om Gan Ganapataye Namah' and the Ganapati Atharvasirsha, a sacred text that describes Lord Ganesha’s attributes and power. Devotees recite these mantras with devotion, focusing on their prayers for the removal of obstacles and the fulfillment of their wishes.
After chanting the mantras, devotees offer modaks (Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet) and other offerings like fruits, jaggery, and sweets made of flour, to the idol. These offerings symbolize devotion and gratitude toward Lord Ganesha. While performing the puja, devotees maintain a calm, focused mind, often meditating on the qualities of Lord Ganesha such as wisdom, power, and success.
Once the puja is complete, devotees continue fasting and refrain from consuming grains. The fast is broken only after sighting the moon in the evening, as it is believed that seeing the moon will bring relief from any troubles and hardships. After viewing the moon, devotees offer prayers and break their fast with fruits or simple food, marking the completion of the ritual.
Finally, devotees conclude the puja by expressing gratitude to Lord Ganesha for his blessings and protection. They offer heartfelt prayers for prosperity, health, and success, with the belief that the puja performed on this sacred day will help remove obstacles and bring peace and happiness to their lives.
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Mantra
Ganapati Atharvasirsha (A Verse from the Atharvasirsha):
'ॐ श्री गणेशाय नमः |
यं ब्रह्मा वरुणेन्द्र रुद्र मरुतः स्टुण्डं प्रपद्ये |
सर्वे सर्वे विभूतयः |
सिद्धार्थाः विधिनवशेष |
तस्य त्वं परं प्रयोजनं विधेत |'
This verse, from the Atharvasirsha , praises the divine qualities of Lord Ganesha and seeks his intervention for the well-being and success of the devotee. Chanting this verse with dedication is considered very auspicious on Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi.
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Vidhi (Fasting Procedure)
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant fast observed on the fourth day after the full moon in the month of Magha, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The day is believed to remove obstacles and difficulties in life. To perform the fast, begin by taking an early morning bath before sunrise, ensuring that your surroundings are clean. The area where the fast will be observed should also be purified, and it’s customary to decorate the space with flowers and incense. An idol or photo of Lord Ganesha is placed on a clean altar, and offerings such as fruits, sweets, and flowers can be made.
On the day of the fast, refrain from consuming regular food. Many people follow a strict fast, avoiding grains and pulses, though some may consume fruits, water, or roots. The day is spent in worship and prayer. It is essential to recite the Sankashti Chaturthi mantra, 'ॐ गण गणपतये नमः,' throughout the day to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha. The fasting is typically concluded after sighting the moon in the evening.
A prayer of gratitude and a final offering to Lord Ganesha are made, after which the fast is broken with a light meal. This ritual is performed with devotion, as it is believed to bring blessings and remove hindrances in one's life.
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha
The Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha tells the story of how Lord Ganesha helped remove a powerful obstacle faced by a devotee. Once, there was a merchant who was facing immense difficulties in his life and business. He decided to observe the Sankashti Chaturthi fast, hoping to receive Lord Ganesha's blessings for success and prosperity.
As the merchant fasted on this auspicious day, he spent the day in worship, chanting the sacred mantra and offering his prayers to Lord Ganesha. During the night, as he completed his fast and gazed at the moon, he felt a divine presence surrounding him. Lord Ganesha appeared in his dream and praised him for his devotion and faith. The Lord assured him that his problems would be solved soon and that prosperity would come to him as a result of the fast.
The merchant, deeply moved by this vision, awoke with a renewed sense of hope and faith. When he resumed his work the next day, he found that his business prospered and all the obstacles that once plagued him were gone. His faith in Lord Ganesha’s power and blessings was reinforced, and he continued to observe the Sankashti Chaturthi fast every year thereafter, with great devotion and gratitude.
The story serves as a reminder of the power of devotion, fasting, and faith in overcoming life's challenges. By observing the Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat with sincerity, devotees believe they can receive Lord Ganesha's blessings to remove obstacles and attain success in their endeavors.
Puja Utensils, Essentials
Rudra Centre brings an extensive collection of Puja Articles which caters to all that is required for daily and special Puja Vidhis. We offer variants of designs and sizes in each category. The list includes handcrafted Puja Mandirs, Puja Pedestals, offering Bowls, Panchpatra, intricately carved Puja Thalis, Abhishek Vessels, in different materials, Pure Silver/German Silver articles like Kalash, set of Shodash Upachara and Several other Puja Articles, which we deliver at your doorstep.
Ganesha Idols in Brass
Bring home positivity and auspiciousness by installing beautiful Lord Ganesh idols. These Brass Ganesh statues are crafted with finesse by the most skilled artisans and are sure to behold one’s attention. Lord Ganesha is one of the principal deities in Hindu religion, and He is worshipped/invoked before starting a new endeavor or any puja ritual.
Gemstone Ganesha Idols
Extensive collection of Ganesha Idols made in 100% natural non-heated gemstones. Made in Ruby, crystal, Jade, Hematite, Tiger Eye, Agate and other natural gemstones, our variant designed idols are perfect example of meticulous craftsmanship. Gemstone Idols are considered highly auspicious and produce high frequency spiritual vibrations of the gemstones.
Conclusion
Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, celebrated by devotees who seek his blessings to remove obstacles and bring prosperity into their lives. This festival holds great spiritual importance, as it serves as a reminder of the power of devotion and faith in overcoming challenges. Observed with reverence, it brings together communities in prayer and worship, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual growth. The rituals and customs associated with the day encourage devotees to reflect on their lives and seek divine guidance to improve their circumstances.
The festival emphasizes the importance of aligning one's actions with devotion, discipline, and positive intentions. Lord Ganesha, known as the remover of obstacles, is worshipped for his ability to bring success, peace, and harmony. Observing this festival allows individuals to strengthen their bond with the divine, renew their sense of purpose, and embrace the belief that with faith, any obstacle can be overcome. Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi, therefore, serves not only as a time for celebration but also as a powerful reminder of spiritual resilience and divine grace.
-in-Astrology.jpg)
.jpg)
Comments 0
Leave your thought here