Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: A Sacred Observance for Lord Ganesha
Sankashti Chaturthi stands as one of the most profoundly significant days in the Hindu religious calendar, carrying immense spiritual weight for devotees across India and beyond. This auspicious occasion is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity revered as the remover of obstacles. Devotees traditionally observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, engaging in heartfelt prayers and temple visits to seek divine blessings. Each Sankashti Chaturthi in the lunar calendar is uniquely characterized by its own peetha, specific rituals, and distinctive name, adding layers of tradition to the observance.
Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Date and Precise Timings
The Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi occurs during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Phalguna. In 2026, this sacred day falls on February 5, with devotees preparing to observe the fast to appease Lord Ganpati. The astrological timings are crucial for the rituals:
- Chaturthi Tithi Begins: February 5, 2026, at 12:09 AM
- Chaturthi Tithi Ends: February 6, 2026, at 12:22 AM
- Krishna Paksha Moonrise on Sankashti Day: 09:35 PM
Adhering to these timings ensures the fast and prayers align with the most spiritually potent periods, maximizing the devotional benefits.
The Profound Significance of Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi
Since this day is wholly devoted to Lord Ganesha, Sankashti Chaturthi holds special religious importance for Hindus. It is deeply believed that Lord Ganesha, in his benevolent form, eliminates all difficulties and troubles, earning him the title Vighnaharta – the remover of obstacles. Followers maintain that he alleviates life's hardships, granting success, joy, wealth, happiness, and materialistic pleasures to those who worship with sincerity.
The day is considered extremely powerful and sacred, with traditions suggesting that individuals seeking progeny or facing challenges in conception should observe this fast for wish fulfillment. Moreover, Lord Ganesha is invoked to clear obstacles in career, relationships, and professional endeavors, making the observance particularly relevant in modern life. Devotees who fast and worship with full devotion and purity are believed to have their desired wishes fulfilled by the gracious deity.
Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Step-by-Step Puja Rituals
Performing the puja with dedication is key to honoring Lord Ganesha on this day. Here is a detailed guide to the rituals:
- Begin by taking a holy bath immediately after waking up to purify the body and mind.
- Thoroughly clean your home and the designated puja room before setting up the altar to create a sacred environment.
- Place an idol or image of Lord Ganesha, fill a kalash with clean water, and light a diya using pure desi ghee.
- Apply a haldi tilak on the forehead of the idol, adorn it with a fresh garland, and offer traditional items like panjiri, bananas, sweets such as Boondi Laddoo, and durva grass, which is especially important in Sankashti fasts.
- Invoke the deity's presence by reciting powerful Lord Ganesha mantras with focus and reverence.
- Recite the specific Katha (narrative) associated with Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi to understand its spiritual story.
- Conclude by performing the aarti and humbly seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha for prosperity and obstacle-free life.
Essential Lord Ganesha Mantras for the Occasion
Chanting mantras is a core part of the worship. Here are key mantras to recite during the puja:
- Om Gan Ganpataye Namah..!! – A simple yet potent invocation.
- Om Shri Ganeshaye Namah..!! – Offering salutations to Lord Ganesha.
- Om Vakra Tunda Mahakaye Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kurumaye Dev Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada, Gajananam Bhoot Ganadhi Sevitam Kapita Jambhu Phalacharu Bhakshinam Umasutam Shok Vinaashkarakam Namami Vighneshwaram Pada Pankhajam..!! – A comprehensive mantra seeking removal of obstacles and blessings in all endeavors.
Observing Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi with these rituals and mantras allows devotees to connect deeply with Lord Ganesha, fostering spiritual growth and divine grace in their lives.
