Sankashti Chaturthi, observed with devout fervor and enthusiasm in Hindu culture, is a significant day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It falls on the fourth day (Chaturthi Tithi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) each lunar month. The term ‘Sankashti’ derives from Sanskrit, meaning liberation during difficult times, hence the day signifies the removal of obstacles for those who worship Lord Ganesha with unwavering faith. See below for the detailed explanation about the 2024 Sankashti Chaturthi Pooja Dates Timings List.

2024 Sankashti Chaturthi Pooja Dates Timings List

In 2024, the Sankashti Chaturthi vrat will be observed monthly, following the lunar calendar. The dates are pivotal for devotees as they prepare to perform the pooja rituals with precision. While specific timings can vary based on geographic locations, generally, the pooja is performed in the evening, after sighting the moon, which is an essential part of the Sankashti Chaturthi vrat.

How to do Pooja at Home

Performing the Sankashti Chaturthi pooja at home involves a series of steps, steeped in tradition and devotion:

1. Cleanse the Home and Pooja Area: Begin by cleaning the house, especially the area where the pooja will be conducted.
2. Install Lord Ganesha’s Idol: Place an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha on a raised platform or altar.
3. Light a Diya: Light a ghee lamp (diya) to invoke the deity’s presence.
4. Panchamrit Abhishekam: Perform the abhishekam (ritual washing) of Lord Ganesha’s idol with Panchamrit (a mix of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee) followed by water rinsing.
5. Offerings: Offer fresh flowers, durva grass, and modak (a sweet dumpling).
6. Recite Mantras: Chant the ‘Ganapati Atharvashirsha’ or other Ganesha mantras with devotion.
7. Perform Aarti: Conclude the pooja with the Ganesha Aarti.

Pooja Items and Procedure of Sankashti Chaturthi Ganapathi Pooja

A typical Sankashti Chaturthi pooja thali includes the following items:

• A diya or lamp
• Panchamrit
• Fresh flowers and durva grass
• Incense sticks
• Modak or any sweet as prasadam
• Betel leaves and nuts
• Coconut

The procedure encompasses invocation, veneration, and offerings to Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings for prosperity and happiness.

Significance of Sankashti Pooja

The ritual holds profound spiritual significance, embodying the principle of surrender and devotion. Devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, culminating in the pooja, which reinforces faith and discipline. It is believed that observing this vrat brings joy, removes obstacles, and bestows wisdom and prosperity upon the worshippers.

Prasadam Item

Modak, considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet, is traditionally prepared as prasadam for this pooja. Other sweets, fruits, and savory dishes can also be offered, but modak holds a special place during the ritual.

FAQs about Sankashti Chaturthi Pooja

Q1. Can we drink water while observing the Sankashti fast? A1. Yes, observers can drink water during the fast. Some devotees also opt for a partial fast, consuming fruits and milk.

Q2. Is it necessary to see the moon before breaking the fast? A2. Yes, it is a traditional practice to view the moon and offer prayers before breaking the fast.

Q3. Can Sankashti Chaturthi pooja be performed without an idol? A3. While having an idol is ideal, worshippers can also use a picture of Lord Ganesha to perform the rituals.

Q4. Are there any specific mantras to be recited during the pooja? A4. The ‘Ganapati Atharvashirsha’ is widely recited along with various Ganesha mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namo Namaha.”

Sankashti Chaturthi serves as a beacon of hope and faith, providing a spiritual pathway for devotees to enhance their lives through divine blessings. The meticulous observance of this vrat, accompanied by the pooja rituals, reinforces the cultural ethos and familial bonds within the community.

Each aspect of the pooja, from the preparation of the prasadam to the recitation of mantras, encapsulates devotion, offering a profound experience that transcends the material world. In essence, Sankashti Chaturthi is not just a day of veneration; it is a celebration of faith, resilience, and the enduring grace of Lord Ganesha. This is the brief information about the 2024 Sankashti Chaturthi Pooja Dates Timings List in detail.

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