BhaktiLoopAkhurath Sankashti Chaturthi
Observed to worship Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta). Devotees observe a fast to seek his blessings for prosperity, good fortune, and the removal of difficulties in life. 'Akhurath' refers to Lord Ganesha as the one whose vehicle is a mouse (Akhu - mouse, Rath - chariot/vehicle).
Key Rituals & Practices
Partial or full day fast (Nirjala Vrat - without water, or Phalhari Vrat - with fruits/milk).
Worship of Lord Ganesha in the morning and evening.
Offering of Modak (sweet dumplings), laddoo, durva grass, and flowers to Ganesha.
Chanting Ganesha mantras and 'Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha'.
Recitation of Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha (story).
Viewing the moon (Chandrodaya) at night, followed by offering 'Arghya' (water offering) to the moon god.
Breaking the fast only after moon sighting and performing rituals.
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Magha (as per North Indian Purnimanta calendar) or Pausha (as per South Indian Amavasyanta calendar)
Paksha
Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight)
Tithi
Chaturthi (fourth day)
Regional Relevance & Variations
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Historical & Mythological Context
While specific historical contexts for individual Sankashti Chaturthis are rare, the observance of Sankashti Chaturthi itself is rooted in Hindu mythology where Lord Ganesha is revered as the deity who removes all obstacles and bestows wisdom and prosperity. Observing a fast on Chaturthi is believed to have originated from various Puranic tales emphasizing Ganesha's power and benevolence.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Varies (typically falls in January or February)