Devotees across India are preparing to observe one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar, Sankashti Chaturthi, dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This monthly observance holds immense spiritual significance for millions, and the upcoming fast in the month of Pausha is particularly special. Falling on the Krishna Paksha, this day is a powerful opportunity to seek the blessings of the Vighnaharta, the remover of all obstacles.
Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi 2025: Auspicious Date and Timings
The Sankashti Chaturthi fast is scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025. The observance is governed by specific lunar timings that devotees must follow meticulously. The Chaturthi Tithi begins at 06:24 PM on December 7 and concludes at 04:03 PM on December 8, 2025.
A crucial aspect of the vrat is breaking the fast only after sighting the moon. For this Sankashti day, the Krishna Dashami Moonrise is at 07:55 PM. This timing is provided to help devotees plan their evening prayers and the ritual of breaking their fast with the moon sighting ceremony.
Significance and Benefits of the Sankashti Vrat
In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is revered as the primal deity, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and is always worshipped first. Sankashti Chaturthi is a day dedicated to honoring him as the benevolent remover of hurdles. Through sincere prayers, fasting, and puja ceremonies, devotees seek his divine grace to overcome life's challenges, gain wisdom, and attract wealth and peace.
Observing this fast with dedication is believed to cleanse the body and mind, strengthen one's faith, and foster self-control and spiritual awareness. Devotees hold a firm belief that their heartfelt wishes are fulfilled when this vrat is observed with true devotion, bringing joy and prosperity to the entire family.
Puja Rituals for Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi
To correctly observe the day, followers adhere to a set of traditional rituals. The puja begins with taking a holy bath early in the morning. An idol or picture of Lord Ganesha is placed on a clean wooden platform. A diya (lamp) fueled with desi ghee is lit in front of the deity.
Offerings typically include fresh marigold garlands, Lord Ganesha's favorite sweets like Modak and Laddoo, and sacred Durva grass. A water-filled kalash is also placed before the idol. The worship involves reciting Vedic mantras dedicated to Ganesh Ji and narrating the sacred Sankashti Vrat Katha to invoke blessings.
It is essential to perform the evening worship as well. The fast is concluded only after offering Arghya (water) to the Moon God following the moonrise. This completes the sacred observance.
Powerful Mantras for the Day:
- Om Gan Ganpataye Namah..!!
- Om Shree Ganeshaye Namah..!!
- Om Vakratunda Mahakaye Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kurumaye Dev Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada...
