Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi, also known as Sankata Hara Chaturthi, is an auspicious Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) every month, Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi holds special significance when it falls on a Tuesday, which is considered highly auspicious for worshiping Lord Ganesha. This blog explores the details of Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi 2024, including its date, shubh muhurat (auspicious timings), puja rituals, significance, mantra, and more.
Date of Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi 2024
In 2024, Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi falls on Tuesday, the 13th of February. This date marks the celebration of the day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity.
Shubh Muhurat for Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi 2024
The shubh muhurat (auspicious timings) for Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi puja on 13th February 2024 are as follows:
- Moonrise Time: 09:15 PM
- Chaturthi Tithi Begins: 02:10 AM on 13th February 2024
- Chaturthi Tithi Ends: 04:09 AM on 14th February 2024
Devotees observe a strict fast (Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat) from sunrise to moonrise on this day, breaking it only after sighting the moon.
Puja Rituals for Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi
- Preparation: Cleanse the puja area and yourself before starting the rituals. Gather necessary items such as idols or images of Lord Ganesha, flowers, fruits, incense sticks, lamps, and sweets.
- Ganesh Puja: Begin with Ganesh puja by invoking Lord Ganesha. Offer flowers, incense, and a lamp while chanting Ganesh mantras and slokas.
- Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat: Observing a fast from sunrise to moonrise is customary. The fast is broken after sighting the moon and offering prayers.
- Moon Sighting: After sunset, devotees break their fast by looking at the moon and then performing aarti of Lord Ganesha.
- Distribution of Prasad: Distribute prasad (offerings) among family members and friends after the puja is complete.
Significance of Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi
Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and traditions:
- Lord Ganesha’s Blessings: Devotees believe that observing fasts and performing puja on this day pleases Lord Ganesha, who blesses them with prosperity, success, and removes obstacles from their path.
- Worship of Lord Ganesha: It is believed that worshipping Lord Ganesha on Sankashti Chaturthi brings peace, happiness, and fulfillment of desires.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Observing the fast is not only a ritualistic practice but also a means to purify oneself spiritually and seek the divine blessings of Lord Ganesha.
Mantra for Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi
Chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha during the puja enhances the spiritual experience and invokes his divine presence. One of the most popular mantras is:
“Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”
This mantra is believed to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha and seek his guidance and protection.
Conclusion
Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi 2024 is a day of reverence and devotion to Lord Ganesha, where devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and seek his divine blessings. By following the prescribed rituals and chanting mantras, devotees aim to overcome obstacles and attain success and prosperity in their lives. This auspicious day not only strengthens one’s faith but also reaffirms the belief in the power of devotion and prayers in Hindu culture.
