Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi 2024: Date, Time, Rituals and Significance

Devotees offering prayers and sweets to Lord Ganesha [Image: Canva]

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity known for removing obstacles and bringing prosperity. This year it will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. Celebrated with great devotion, this festival falls on the Chaturthi (fourth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of the lunar month of Ashadha.

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi Date and Time

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi Rituals

• Fasting: Devotees observe a day-long fast on Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi. The fast is usually broken after performing the evening rituals. Some devotees choose to consume only fruits and water during the day.
• Ganesha Puja: The main ritual involves worshipping Lord Ganesha with offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets. Special prayers and hymns dedicated to Lord Ganesha are recited to seek his blessings.
• Chanting of Ganapati Vrat Katha: The Ganapati Vrat Katha, a sacred narrative of Lord Ganesha’s significance, is recited or listened to during the day. This story highlights the divine attributes of Lord Ganesha and the importance of observing the fast.
• Breaking the Fast: The fast is traditionally broken after the sighting of the moon. Devotees prepare an array of special dishes and offer them to Lord Ganesha before partaking in the meal.
• Donation and Charity: It is customary to make charitable donations or perform acts of kindness on this day. Offering food and gifts to the needy is considered auspicious and is believed to bring additional blessings.

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi Significance

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi holds profound significance for devotees of Lord Ganesha. The day is considered auspicious for removing obstacles and seeking divine blessings for personal and professional success. Lord Ganesha, revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, is worshipped on this day to overcome difficulties and ensure smooth progress in life.

The festival is particularly important for those seeking solutions to problems or looking for guidance in their endeavors. Observing the rituals with sincerity and devotion is believed to help in overcoming challenges and achieving desired goals.

Also Read: Ways to Seek Ganesha’s Blessings and Its Benefits

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi History

The tradition of Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi has ancient roots in Hindu mythology. Lord Ganesha, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is worshipped for his role as the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom. According to legends, Ganesha was once created by Goddess Parvati from the turmeric paste she used for bathing. When Ganesha was not recognized by Lord Shiva, a confrontation ensued, leading to Ganesha’s head being replaced with that of an elephant as a mark of his unique divine presence.

The practice of celebrating Sankashti Chaturthi has been passed down through generations as a means to honor Lord Ganesha and seek his divine intervention in overcoming difficulties. The day is especially significant during the month of Ashadha, which is considered a period of spiritual significance in Hinduism.

Also Read: Why is Lord Ganesha Worshipped First in every Puja?