Gajanan Sankashti Chathurthi Vrat is observed by invoking Bhagwan Ganesha. This Sankashti Chathurthi Vrat occurs in the Krishna Paksha Chathurthi of Ashada month.
The general form of Sri Sankashti Ganapathi as the destroyer of troubles is of golden hue, attired in blue dress sitting on red lotus. He is in varadha mudra bestowing abundance and is holding a goad, a noose and a bowl of payasam.
Gajanan Sankashti Chathurthi is on Wednesday, 24th July 2024. The exact duration of the Chathurthi Tithi and the time of the moon rise are to be ascertained from the respective regional calendar.
The form of Sri Vinayaka for worshipping in this Vrat is Sri Gajana Ganapathi. The Peeta is Sri Vishnu.
Sri Gajana Ganapathi
Sri Ganesh is called as Gajanan as He has the head of the elephant (Gaja). The reason for having the elephant head is described in the article pertaining to Sri Vikata Ganapathi.
Sankashti Chathurthi Vrat
There are a few legends pertaining to the significance of Sri Sankashti Chathurthi. The legend is said to be mentioned in Sri Vinayaka Puran.
Rituals
The devotees wake up early in the morning. After bathing, the puja place at home is cleaned. The vigraha or the picture of Sri Ganapathi is decorated with flowers. Chandan and Kumkum are applied. Lamps and Dhup are lit.
Slokams / Stotrams invoking Sri Ganapathi are recited. The story concerned with the Sankashti Chathurthi Vrat is read and recited.
Some people observe fasting for the day. By the evening, special abhishekams and archanas are done at Ganapathi temples.
After having the darshan of Chandra, the moon, they partake the prasadam which was offered to God as Neivedyam.
Giving daan of food (Annadanam) to the poor and needy is of utmost importance.
The ardent devotees of Lord Ganesha consider the Sankashti Chathurthi festivals as highly auspicious.
Sankashti Chathurthi Vrats – benefits
It is believed that sincere observation of all the Sankata Hara Chathurthi Vrats shall
-result in fulfillment of the wishes;
-bless progeny;
-alleviate all problems in life;
-bring in prosperity;
-assure no re-birth; and
-ensure attainment of salvation in Ganesh Loka.
The particulars of Sankashti Vrats in general, Vikata Sankashti Chathurthi, Eka dhantha Sankashti Chathurthi and Krishna Pingala Sankashti Chathurthi are narrated in the previous articles.
