Vikata Sankashti 2025 Date: When is Chaturthi Tithi - April 16 or April 17?

Vikata Sankashti 2025 Date: When is Chaturthi Tithi - April 16 or April 17?

Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi, a sacred observance dedicated to Lord Ganesha, will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. This monthly fasting day is one of the most spiritually significant occasions for devotees of Lord Ganesha and is observed on the Chaturthi Tithi (fourth day) of the Krishna Paksha, or the waning phase of the Moon.

Why the Confusion About the Date?

Many devotees often find themselves wondering whether the Sankashti Chaturthi falls on April 16 or April 17. This confusion usually arises due to differences in lunar and solar calendar timings, as the exact start and end time of Chaturthi Tithi can span two Gregorian dates. However, in 2025, the Chaturthi Tithi is clearly observed on April 16, as per the Hindu Panchang.

What is Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi?

Sankashti Chaturthi is observed every month, but the Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi is considered especially powerful. The name "Vikata" refers to one of Lord Ganesha’s 108 names and highlights his form as the remover of difficult obstacles.

This special Chaturthi is believed to bless devotees with courage, clarity, and relief from troubles when observed with devotion and fasting.

Rituals and Observance

• Fast from sunrise to moonrise, breaking their fast only after sighting the Moon.
• Offer Durva grass, Modaks (sweet dumplings), and red flowers to Lord Ganesha.
• Recite the Sankashti Vrat Katha, Ganesha Stotra, and the Ganapati Atharvashirsha.
• Visit temples or perform puja at home to seek blessings for prosperity, wisdom, and removal of all hindrances.

In temples, special Abhishekam (ritual bathing) and Aarti are performed. Many people also observe strict dietary discipline, consuming only fruits or a single meal during the day.

Significance of Moonrise

Moonrise holds a special place in Sankashti Chaturthi observance. It marks the time when devotees break their fast. Since the timing of the moonrise varies by location, it is important to consult a local calendar or Panchang for the exact moonrise time on April 16, 2025.

For those observing this sacred fast in 2025, mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 16, as the confirmed date for Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi. It’s a day to seek Lord Ganesha’s guidance, wisdom, and blessings for a life free of obstacles and filled with positivity.

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