April 17, 2025 
Chaturthi Vrat is a fast dedicated to Lord Ganesha, observed on the fourth day of each lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. Among the various Chaturthi days, Sankashti Chaturthi and Vinayaka Chaturthi are particularly significant. Devotees observe a day-long fast, typically abstaining from grains and sometimes even water, focusing on prayers, chanting Ganesha mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha,” and reciting stories related to Lord Ganesha. The fast is usually broken in the evening after sighting the moon or after a special puja. The purpose of this vrat is to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for the removal of obstacles, success in endeavors, wisdom, and overall well-being.
This occurs on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha each month. Moonrise timings vary, but generally fall between 8:00 PM and 10:30 PM. Chaturthi Vrat falls on the fourth day of the Shukla Paksha each month.
Chaturthi Vrat, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, involves a day filled with devotion and spiritual practices. Many devotees begin the day with an early bath and make a Sankalp to observe the fast sincerely. The primary way to celebrate is by observing a fast for the entire day. Some opt for a strict fast without any food or water, while others may follow a partial fast, consuming only fruits, milk, or other permissible sattvic ite.
Throughout the day, the focus is on prayers and worship of Lord Ganesha. This includes chanting Ganesha mantras, such as “Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha,” and reciting devotional hymns and stories related to his life and divine attributes. Many devotees visit Ganesha temples to offer special prayers, perform abhishekam, and seek blessings. At home, an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha is often adorned with flowers, especially red ones and Durva grass, which are considered sacred to him. Modak and ladoos, Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweets, are often prepared and offered as prasad.
Significance and the Deities Involved
Lord Ganesha, is highly revered in Hinduism as the deity of beginnings and the dispeller of obstacles. Observing the Chaturthi Vrat is a way for devotees to express their devotion and seek his divine intervention in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals. Each Chaturthi in the Hindu calendar has its own specific name and is associated with a particular form of Lord Ganesha, each with a unique significance and Vrat Katha. By observing this vrat, devotees aim to purify their minds and bodies, strengthen their spiritual connection with Lord Ganesha, and invoke his blessings for happiness and prosperity.
Observances and Rituals Throughout the Day
The observance of Chaturthi Vrat typically begins with an early morning bath and a firm resolve to observe the fast with sincerity. Devotees abstain from consuming food throughout the day, with some also avoiding water. The focus is entirely on Lord Ganesha, with prayers, chanting of his sacred mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha,” and the recitation of devotional hymns and stories dedicated to him. Many devotees visit Ganesha temples to offer special prayers, perform rituals like Abhishek, and present offerings such as Durva grass, red flowers, modak, and ladoos, which are considered Lord Ganesha’s favorites.
Evening Puja and Breaking the Fast
The culmination of the Chaturthi Vrat is the evening puja dedicated to Lord Ganesha. An idol or image of the deity is adorned with flowers and other sacred items. The puja involves offering incense, lighting a lamp, and presenting the prasad. Reciting the specific Vrat Katha associated with the Chaturthi being observed is a significant part of the evening rituals. For Sankashti Chaturthi, the fast is traditionally broken after sighting the moon. Following the puja and moon sighting, devotees partake in the prasad and a simple, sattvic meal. Engaging in charitable activities and spending the day in pious contemplation further enhance the spiritual benefits of this devoted fast to Lord Ganesha.