Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankashti Chaturti or Ganesh Sankatahara Chaturthi, is an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Ganesh, which falls every month in a Hindu calendar. Sankata literally means “problems or worries” and Hara means “removing or eliminating”, therefore Sankata Hara Chadurthi or Sankatahara Chadurthi is a day to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesh to remove all problems in life.

Chaturthi falls on the fourth day after new moon and fourth day after full moon in the Hindu calendar. Sankatahara Chaturthi is the fourth day of the waning lunar phase after the full moon. Sankashti means liberation during difficult times and therefore observing this fast is believed to reduce problems and seek the blessings of Lord Ganesh. If Sankashti Chaturthi falls on Tuesday, it is known as Angaraki Chaturthi or Angaraka Chaturthi. Angaraki is the other name of Mangal or Kuja or Chevaai or Bhauma (planet Mars). In November 2009, the date of Ganesh Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat is on 5th November 2009.

Devotees observe fast for the whole day and conclude it after moonrise. After taking a bath in the evening, Lord Ganesh is worshipped with Durva (a variety of very fine grass). Aarti is taken and the Naivedyam is offered to Lord Ganesha. Then Lord Moon is worshipped and the fast is broken by offering meal to Brahmin. Reciting prayers of Lord Ganesh form an important part of the Sankashti fast. Ganesh Gayatri, Ganesh Ashtothram Shatanamavali (108 Names), and Ganesh Atharvashirsha Avartan are the main mantras recited while observing Ganesha Sankatahara Chaturthi Vrata. Observing this fast brings happiness and fulfills one’s desires.

 

Worshipping Lord Chandra on Sankashti Chaturthi
On Sankashta Chaturthi, worship of Lord Chandra (Moon God) is considered auspicious. If you are not able to view the moon in the sky, an image of the moon can be drawn as a symbol. The moon is offered with sandalwood paste and flowers. Naivedya is also performed.