Ganesha Sankashti Chaturthi 2024: Ways to Seek Ganesha’s Blessings and Its Benefits

Embrace the divine blessings of Ganesha on Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi [Image: Canva]

Sankashti Chaturthi, an important Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is observed every month on the fourth day (Chaturthi) after the full moon (Purnima). It will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. This day, also known as Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi, is an auspicious time for devotees to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings for overcoming obstacles and attaining success.

How to Seek Blessings of Ganesha on Sankashti Chaturthi?

• Observance of Fasting: Devotees observe a fast on Sankashti Chaturthi, refraining from consuming food and water from sunrise to moonrise. The fast is broken only after performing the puja (worship) and sighting the moon.
• Preparation: Clean the house and the area where the puja will be performed. Place an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha on a clean altar.
• Offering: Offer fresh flowers, fruits, and sweets like Modaks, which are considered Ganesha’s favorite. Incense sticks and lamps should be lit during the puja.
• Recitation of Mantras: Chant the Ganapati Atharvasirsha, Ganapati Stotra, or any other Ganesha mantras to invoke his blessings. The "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah" mantra is particularly auspicious.
• Listening to Stories: Recite or listen to the stories of Ganesha’s deeds and significance, which help in enhancing devotion and understanding of the deity.
• Moon Sighting: After the puja, devotees should wait for the moon to rise. Upon sighting the moon, they can break their fast. It is customary to offer prayers and seek forgiveness for any transgressions during the fasting period.

• Removal of Obstacles: Observing this day is believed to help in removing obstacles in various aspects of life, including career, education, and personal relationships.
• Blessings of Success and Prosperity: Lord Ganesha is known to bless his devotees with success and prosperity. Regular observance of Sankashti Chaturthi can attract positive energy and lead to personal growth and development.
• Spiritual Growth: Fasting and performing the rituals with devotion helps in spiritual growth. It cleanses the mind and body, leading to a more focused and harmonious life.
• Strengthening Family Bonds: Sankashti Chaturthi provides an opportunity for family members to come together and perform rituals. It strengthens family bonds and promotes unity and harmony within the household.
• Overcoming Mental Stress: The act of fasting and praying can help alleviate mental stress and anxiety, as it encourages a disciplined and meditative approach to life.