Today is being observed with deep devotion as Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi, a sacred day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. In Hindu tradition, Sankashti Chaturthi holds special importance, and when it falls on a Tuesday, it is considered even more powerful and auspicious. On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha to seek relief from obstacles and difficulties in life.
According to religious beliefs, this fast is considered incomplete without offering Arghya (water) to the Moon after sighting it at night. Let’s understand the importance of this day, why offering Arghya to the Moon is essential, and the proper method of पूजा.
What is Sankashti Chaturthi?
Sankashti Chaturthi is observed every month on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha. The word “Sankashti” means freedom from troubles and difficulties.
On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles, bring success, and invite prosperity into their lives.
“Ekadanta” is one of the names of Lord Ganesha, meaning the one with a single tusk, and this form is specially worshipped on this day.
Significance of Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi
Observing this fast and पूजा is believed to:
Remove life’s obstacles and problems
Help in achieving success in work and goals
Enhance wisdom and decision-making ability
Bring happiness and prosperity
Lord Ganesha is known as the “Vighnaharta” (remover of obstacles), so worshipping him on this day is considered highly beneficial.
Why is Offering Arghya to the Moon Important?
The most important rule of this fast is to offer water to the Moon after moonrise.
According to a mythological story, once Chandra Dev laughed at Lord Ganesha. Angered by this, Ganesha cursed the Moon that anyone who sees it would face दोष (troubles). Later, after the Moon apologized, Ganesha softened the curse and declared that on Chaturthi, seeing the Moon and offering Arghya would bring blessings instead of दोष.
That is why the fast of Sankashti Chaturthi is considered incomplete without offering Arghya to the Moon.
Fasting & Worship Method
Devotees observe a fast throughout the day and perform पूजा in the morning and evening.
पूजा विधि
Wake up early and take a bath
Wear clean clothes
Clean the पूजा area
Place an idol or image of Lord Ganesha
Light a diya and incense
Offer Durva grass, modak, and sweets
Chant the Ganesh mantra
Mantra:
“Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”
In the Evening:
Wait for moonrise
Offer water (Arghya) to the Moon
Perform moon दर्शन
Then break the fast
Rules to Follow During the Fast
Observe a full-day fast (nirjala or fruit-based)
Maintain purity in thoughts, speech, and actions
Avoid anger and negativity
Keep remembering Lord Ganesha throughout the day
Sankashti Chaturthi Story (Short)
According to legend, a king once faced many hardships. On the advice of a sage, he observed the Sankashti Chaturthi fast and worshipped Lord Ganesha.
Soon, all his problems were resolved, and his life became peaceful and prosperous.
This story highlights the importance of faith and devotion.
Importance of the Moon
In Hindu belief, the Moon represents the mind and emotions. Offering Arghya to the Moon helps:
Bring mental peace
Reduce stress and anxiety
Maintain emotional balance
That is why Moon worship holds special importance on this day.
Benefits of the Fast
Observing Sankashti Chaturthi fast is believed to:
Remove obstacles and negativity
Improve financial stability
Bring peace and happiness
Strengthen family harmony
Ensure success in work
Who Should Observe This Fast?
This fast is especially beneficial for people who:
Face repeated obstacles in life
Struggle with unfinished tasks
Experience stress or mental unrest
Seek success, peace, and stability
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
Worship with devotion and sincerity
Chant Lord Ganesha’s name
Offer Arghya to the Moon
Don’ts:
Avoid anger and conflicts
Stay away from negative thoughts
Do not skip Moon worship
Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi is not just a fast but a spiritual path to remove obstacles and invite positivity into life. Worshipping Lord Ganesha and offering Arghya to the Moon are essential parts of this sacred observance.
If performed with true devotion, this fast can bring peace, success, and prosperity.
So, do not forget to offer Arghya to the Moon today, as without it, the fast is considered incomplete.
“Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha…
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada.”