Sankastahara Chaturthi Puja

Here are the general puja details for observing Sankashti Chaturthi:

1. Date and Timing:

• Sankashti Chaturthi is observed once a month, and the date varies each month based on the Hindu calendar.
• Devotees observe this fast from sunrise to moonrise on the Chaturthi day.

2. Fasting:

• Devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise until they sight the moon in the evening. Some choose to break their fast after sighting the moon, while others break it after performing the puja.

3. Ganesha Puja:

• Begin the day with a clean bath and wear fresh, clean clothes.
• Create a small idol or picture of Lord Ganesha on a clean platform.
• Light a lamp and incense sticks.
• Offer red flowers, durva grass (Bermuda grass), and Modak (a sweet dumpling considered Lord Ganesha's favorite) to Lord Ganesha.
• Chant prayers and mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The popular Ganesha mantra is "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah."

4. Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha:

• It is a common practice to read or listen to the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha during the evening puja. This story narrates the significance of observing the fast and the blessings it brings.

5. Moonrise and Breaking the Fast:

• Keep an eye on the moonrise time for your location. The fast is traditionally broken after sighting the moon.
• Once the moon is visible, offer arghya (water) to the moon and seek Lord Ganesha's blessings.
• Consume a meal to break the fast. Some devotees prefer eating food items that are considered auspicious for Lord Ganesha.

6. Prayers:

• Devotees may perform additional prayers and Aarti during the puja.