Akhuratha Sankashta Chaturthi 2024: Sankashta Chaturthi Puja Method, Significance And Mantra

In the rich tapestry of Hindu tradition, Sankashta Chaturthi emerges as a pivotal day, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the deity revered for removing obstacles and heralding new beginnings. This auspicious occasion falls on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha in every lunar month, marking a time when devotees engage in fasting and prayer from sunrise to moonrise. The essence of this ritual lies in its power to bestow wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual growth upon those who observe it, promising to navigate them through life’s challenges with grace and harmony.

The significance of Sankashta Chaturthi in Hinduism cannot be overstated, given Ganesha's revered status as the first deity to be worshipped among the pantheon of Hindu gods. As the divine offspring of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Ganesha holds a place of honor as the vanquisher of obstacles. Devotees seeking to surmount life’s hurdles and attract peace, as well as wealth into their lives, find solace and strength in the rituals of Sankashta Chaturthi. By offering prayers, fasting, and performing puja (worship rituals), believers aim to cleanse their body and mind, deepening their faith in the divine's merciful nature.

The month of Margashir, in particular, hosts an exceptional observance of this fast, known as Akhuratha Sankashta Chaturthi, which will next be celebrated on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. This special iteration of the fast holds additional importance, inviting worshippers to engage in more profound devotional activities.

The auspicious timings for this day are as follows:

• Chaturthi Tithi starts at 12:36 PM on December 18, 2024
• Chaturthi Tithi ends at 12:32 PM the following day, with the time for moonrise set at 10:02 PM on December 18.

Observing Akhuratha Sankashta Chaturthi

To honor Lord Ganesha on Akhuratha Sankashta Chaturthi, the devout start their day early, cleansing themselves with a bath before initiating the puja. A revered image or idol of Ganesha is placed on a wooden pedestal, illuminated by a lamp fueled with pure ghee. Offerings, including a garland of marigold flowers, Durva grass, and sweets such as modak or laddus, are made to the deity. A water-filled urn is positioned in front of Ganesha’s idol, symbolizing purity and life. Throughout the day, worshippers recite mantras dedicated to Ganesha and narrate the story of the Sankashta Chaturthi Vrat (fast), seeking divine blessings. Evening worship is followed by offering water to the Moon God, culminating in the breaking of the fast.

The mantras, "Om Gana Ganapataye Namah," "Om Shri Ganeshaye Namah," and "Om Vakratunda Mahakayasuryakoti Samaprabhanirvighnam Kurume Devasarva Karyeshu Sarvada," are chanted with devotion, invoking Ganesha’s presence and blessings. The benefits of participating in this puja extend beyond spiritual fulfillment, promising protection from life’s adversities. This vrat is believed to fulfill wishes, promote awareness, devotion, and self-control, and bring happiness and prosperity to the family.