Mumbai: Devotees of Lord Ganesha will observe Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi on May 16, 2025. Celebrated on the Chaturthi tithi (fourth day) of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Jyeshtha, this special vrat is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in his form as Ekadanta, meaning “one-tusked”. The name “Sankashti” itself signifies freedom from obstacles and difficulties, and it is believed that worshipping Ganesha on this day removes all hardships from one’s life.

Across many regions in India, this vrat holds special importance for women who observe it for the long life and protection of their children. Childless couples also undertake this fast with devotion, praying for the blessing of progeny. It is believed that any religious act performed on this day yields auspicious results and clears the path from life’s obstructions.

Date and timing of sankashti chaturthi 2025

According to the Hindu Panchang, the Chaturthi tithi begins at 4:03 AM on Friday, May 16, 2025, and ends at 5:13 AM on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Since Sankashti Chaturthi is observed in the evening after moonrise, the fast will be kept on Friday, May 16. The moonrise (Chandrodaya) is expected around 10:39 PM, although this may vary slightly based on location. Devotees should refer to their local Panchang for exact timings.

Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Vidhi

• Begin your day early, take a bath and resolve to observe the fast (vrat) with full devotion.
• Clean your puja space and place an idol or image of Lord Ganesha.
• Invoke Lord Ganesha and offer him Gangajal or pure water for purification.
• Dress the idol in red or yellow clothes, and perform shringar using sandalwood paste, vermillion, turmeric, etc.
• Offer Durva grass (very dear to Ganesha) and red/yellow flowers.
• Prepare a bhog of modaks, til laddus, fruits, and sweets for the deity.
• Light a ghee lamp and incense, and perform aarti.
• Chant Ganesha Mantras Like “Om Gam Ganapataye Namah” or “Om Vakratundaya hum.”
• Read or Listen to the Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha (The Story of this Vrat).
• After moonrise, worship the moon and offer Arghya (water offering).
• Break your fast only after the moon worship, by consuming sattvic (pure vegetarian) food.
• Donate to the poor or those in need as per your capacity.

Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha

One of the widely recited stories on this day tells of a demon named Madasura, who once caused immense suffering to the gods. Distressed, the gods sought help from Lord Ganesha. Taking the Ekadanta form, Lord Ganesha defeated and destroyed Madasura, liberating the heavens from his tyranny. Hence, worshipping Lord Ganesha in his Ekadanta avatar on this day is said to remove all kinds of obstacles and bring peace and protection to devotees.

Why This Day Matters

Sankashti Chaturthi is more than a ritual—it is a spiritual practice to gain the blessings of Vighnaharta (the remover of obstacles). With heartfelt devotion, observing this vrat on May 16, 2025, is believed to fulfill desires, protect one’s family, and bring divine grace into everyday life.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)