Chaturthi
Also known as: Chauth, Vinayaka Chaturthi, Sankashti Chaturthi
Ganpati Bappa Morya
Significance
Chaturthi is the 4th lunar day, sacred to Lord Ganesha. Shukla Paksha Chaturthi (Vinayaka Chaturthi) is for worshipping Ganesha for success and new beginnings. Krishna Paksha Chaturthi (Sankashti Chaturthi) is observed for removing obstacles. Both are powerful days for invoking Ganesha's blessings for wisdom, prosperity, and removal of hurdles.
Rituals & Observances
- Wake early and take holy bath
- Install or worship Ganesha idol
- Offer 21 Durva grass blades
- Offer Modak and Laddu to Ganesha
- Chant Ganesha Atharvashirsha
- Perform Ganesha Aarti
- Observe fast and break after moonrise
- Avoid looking at the Moon on this day
Special Variations
- Ganesh Chaturthi (Bhadrapada) - 10-day festival
- Sankashti Chaturthi - Monthly moonrise vrat
- Angaraki Chaturthi (Tuesday) - Extra powerful
- Vinayaka Chaturthi for new beginnings
Traditional Foods
Do's and Don'ts
Do
- Ganesha worship
- Start new work
- Fasting
- Charity
Don't
- Look at Moon
- Eat non-veg
- Negative speech