Sankashti Chaturthi is a very important fasting day for Hindus. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is known as the remover of obstacles and the giver of wisdom and success.
The word “Sankashti” means to be free from trouble or difficult times. “Chaturthi” means the fourth day. This holy day is observed every month on the fourth day after the full moon. People fast on this day to find relief from their problems, gain mental peace, and fulfill their wishes.
What Is Sankashti Chaturthi?
This is a monthly fast (vrat). Devotees stop eating at sunrise and break their fast only after they see the moon at night and offer prayers.
People believe that observing this fast helps to:
- Remove bad luck and negativity.
- Bring success in jobs and school.
- Make the mind strong and focused.
- Solve money and health problems.
The Special “Angaraki” Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026
Usually, this day can fall on any day of the week. However, when Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is called Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi. This is considered the most powerful version of the fast.
Important Angaraki Dates in 2026:
- January 6, 2026
- May 5, 2026
- September 29, 2026
Fasting on these specific Tuesdays is said to be very lucky for solving problems related to marriage, debt, or health.
How to Observe the Fast (Rituals)
- Morning Routine
- Wake up early and take a bath.
- Wear clean clothes.
- Make a promise (Sankalp) to complete the fast with devotion.
- Rules for the Day
- Some people do not drink water (Nirjala), while others eat only fruits and drink milk.
- Do not eat grains, salt, or onions.
- Keep your thoughts pure and speak kindly.
- Evening Prayer (After Moonrise)
- Clean your prayer area.
- Place a statue or picture of Lord Ganesha.
- Offer him Durva grass, red flowers, and Modak (a sweet dumpling).
- Light incense sticks.
- Chant Ganesha mantras or listen to the story of the fast (Vrat Katha).
- Look at the moon and offer water (Arghya) to it.
- After these prayers, you can break your fast and eat.
- Mantras to Chant
- For Lord Ganesha: Om Gan Ganapataye Namah
- For the Moon: Om Som Somaya Namah
Benefits of Fasting
- Spiritual Benefits:
- It strengthens your faith in Lord Ganesha.
- It teaches patience and self-discipline.
- Health Benefits:
- Fasting gives your digestive system a rest.
- It helps clean (detox) the body.
- It improves mental clarity.
- Celebration Across India
This festival is celebrated all over India. It is very popular in Maharashtra, where the fasting rules are strict. In South India, it is known as Sankatahara Chaturthi. Regardless of the region, the goal is the same: to pray to Lord Ganesha for a happy and trouble-free life.