Sakat Chauth, also known as Sankashti Chaturthi, is an important fasting day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Devotees observe it for their family’s well-being and prosperity. This month’s Chaturthi is special as it falls on a Tuesday, making it an Angaraki Sakat Chauth, which holds greater spiritual importance.
What Is Sakat Chauth?
Sakat Chauth falls on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi every month and is dedicated mainly to Lord Ganesha. According to The Free Press Journal, in the northern parts of India, people also worship the Goddess Sakat on this day. The festival is known by several names, such as Sankat Chauth, Til-Kuta Chauth, Vakra-Tundi Chaturthi, and Maghi Chauth. Many believe that observing this fast brings good health and happiness, especially for children, and removes obstacles from life.
According to religious beliefs, worshipping Lord Ganesha on Sakat Chauth brings peace, wisdom, and prosperity. Ancient legends say that on this day, Lord Shiva declared Ganesha as the most superior among all gods. Because of this belief, women especially observe this fast for the welfare of their family. Some observe a strict fast, while others follow it according to their strength and comfort.
In 2026, Sakat Chauth will be observed on Tuesday, January 6. As per Drik Panchang, the Chaturthi Tithi will begin at 8:01 am on January 6 and will end at 6:52 am on January 7. The moon will rise at 8:41 pm on the day of Sakat Chauth. Devotees usually break their fast after sighting the moon and offering prayers.
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Rituals To Be Followed
On the day of Sakat Chauth, devotees wake up early and take a bath before sunrise. As per The Free Press Journal, they clean their homes and wear fresh, clean clothes. Many people sprinkle Gangajal in the house as a sign of purity. Visiting a Lord Ganesha temple is considered auspicious, but those who cannot go out can perform the puja at home.
For home worship, devotees prepare a clean asan and place a yellow cloth on it. They place the idol or image of Lord Ganesha and offer flowers, sweets, and panchamrit. Popular offerings include kheer, fruits, til-based sweets, and dry fruits. Devotees chant Ganapati mantras and recite prayers with devotion. Some also read verses from the Gita and perform aarti for Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
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