Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi

Vrat (Fasting) and Puja (Worship)

Optional Holiday / Regional Observance (not a national public holiday)

One day (from sunrise to moonrise)

Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is a sacred day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, specifically the 'Dwijapriya' form. Devotees observe a fast from sunrise until moonrise to seek Ganesha's blessings for the removal of obstacles, wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual growth. 'Dwijapriya' means 'beloved of the twice-born' (referring to those who have undergone the sacred thread ceremony), emphasizing Ganesha's role in guiding spiritual pursuits.

Key Rituals & Practices

Fasting (Vrat):** Devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise, which may be nirjala (without water), phalahari (fruits only), or restricted to certain foods, until the moon is sighted in the evening.

Ganesha Puja:** Elaborate prayers and offerings are made to Lord Ganesha. This typically includes chanting Ganesha mantras ('Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha'), offering Modak (sweet dumplings), Ladoo, Durva grass, red hibiscus flowers, and lighting lamps and incense.

Sankashti Vrat Katha:** Reading or listening to the special vrat katha (story) associated with Sankashti Chaturthi.

Chandrodaya Puja:** After sighting the moon in the evening, devotees perform an aarti (lamp ritual) and offer Arghyam (water offering) to Chandra Dev (the Moon God).

Breaking the Fast:** The fast is broken only after moon sighting and performing the necessary rituals.

Temple Visits:** Many devotees visit Ganesha temples to offer prayers and participate in special pujas.

Associated Deities

Lord Ganesha (specifically Dwijapriya Ganesha)

Chandra Dev (Moon God - worshipped at moonrise)

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Phalguna

Paksha

Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight)

Tithi

Chaturthi (fourth day)

Historical & Mythological Context

Sankashti Chaturthi vrat is believed to have been observed by various gods and sages to overcome challenges. Observing this fast is believed to bring fortune, remove obstacles (Sankashta), and fulfill desires. The specific form of 'Dwijapriya Ganesha' is one of the 32 forms of Ganesha, signifying his association with wisdom, knowledge, and guiding those on a spiritual path. The fast's efficacy is often attributed to Lord Ganesha being the 'Vighnaharta' (remover of obstacles) and 'Buddhi Pradaata' (giver of intelligence and wisdom).

Alternative Names

Phalguna Sankashti Chaturthi

Gregorian Date

Varies; typically in late February or March each year.