Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Date, Time, Puja Muhurat, Vrat Vidhi, Rules, Dos & Don’ts

Sankashti Chaturthi is an important fasting day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. He is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the giver of wisdom. This vrat is observed every month on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi. Each Sankashti Chaturthi has its own importance. The significance changes with the lunar month. It also depends on the form of Lord Ganesha worshipped on that day.

In 2026, Sankashti Chaturthi in the month of Magha is known as Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi. Devotees observe a strict fast on this day. Lord Ganesha is worshipped with deep faith. It is believed that sincere observance removes difficulties. The vrat also helps calm the mind. It brings balance to both personal and professional life.

This article explains everything you need to know about Sankashti Chaturthi 2026, including the correct date, time, muhurat, puja vidhi, fasting rules, dos and don’ts, significance, and frequently asked questions.

Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Date and Day

Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026 will be observed on:

• Date: Thursday, 5 February 2026
• Occasion: Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi
• Hindu Month: Magha (as per Amanta Panchang)

This observance is dedicated to Dwijapriya Ganesha, a form of Lord Ganesha associated with wisdom, self-control, and karmic clarity.

Sankashti Chaturthi 2026 Tithi and Muhurat

According to the Hindu Panchang, Sankashti Chaturthi vrat is observed only when Chaturthi Tithi is present at moonrise, also known as Chandrodaya Vyapini Chaturthi.

Important Timings for Sankashti Chaturthi 2026

Since the Chaturthi Tithi remains present at the time of moonrise, the vrat is correctly observed on 5 February 2026.

Significance of Sankashti Chaturthi

The word Sankashti means “freedom from troubles.” This day is dedicated to seeking relief from obstacles, delays, fears, and mental unrest. Lord Ganesha is worshipped as the divine force that clears blocked paths and brings clarity.

The Magha month Sankashti is especially important and is linked with Dwijapriya Ganesha, whose blessings are believed to help devotees gain:

• Relief from long-standing problems
• Mental peace and emotional balance
• Improved focus and decision-making
• Stability in finances and family matters
• Stronger spiritual discipline

Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Rules

Sankashti Chaturthi vrat is considered a disciplined fast that focuses equally on physical restraint and mental control.

Basic Vrat Rules

• The fast is observed from sunrise until moonrise.
• Devotees avoid regular meals during the day.
• Only vrat-friendly foods are allowed if required.
• The fast is broken only after moon darshan and puja.

Allowed Foods During the Fast

Common foods consumed during Sankashti vrat include:

• Fruits
• Sabudana
• Potatoes
• Peanuts
• Milk and milk-based vrat items

Grains, salt, and cooked meals are generally avoided.

Sankashti Chaturthi Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step)

Morning Rituals

The day begins early. Devotees should wake up before sunrise, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. After this, a Sankalpa is taken with a calm and focused mind. This is a personal vow to observe the vrat with faith and discipline.

Throughout the day, devotees are advised to keep their speech calm, avoid negative thoughts, and maintain respectful behaviour.

Evening Puja

In the evening, preferably after sunset:

• Take a bath again if possible.
• Wear clean or red-coloured clothes.
• Place a Lord Ganesha idol or picture in the puja area.
• Offer flowers, incense, a lamp, fruits, and naivedya.
• Chant Ganesha mantras or listen to the Sankashti Vrat Katha.
• If possible, perform Shodashopachara Ganesha Puja.

After Moonrise

Once the moon rises:

• Worship the Moon and offer Arghya.
• Pray for peace, clarity, and obstacle-free progress.
• Seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings.
• Break the fast only after completing all rituals.

Sankashti vrat is considered complete only after moon darshan.

How to Observe Sankashti Chaturthi Fast Correctly

Correct observance of Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to bring positive changes in life. The vrat is not just about food restrictions but also about discipline, patience, and devotion.

Devotees should aim to spend the day in reflection, prayer, and mindful activities rather than stress or indulgence. Emotional balance is considered as important as physical fasting.

Dos of Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat

• Maintain a peaceful and respectful attitude throughout the day.
• Eat only vrat-allowed foods if needed.
• Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
• Chant Lord Ganesha’s mantras or remember His qualities.
• Listen to the Sankashti Vrat Katha in the evening.
• Offer prayers with sincerity rather than focusing on perfect rituals.
• Break the fast only after moonrise and puja.

Don’ts of Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat

• Do not consume grains like rice or wheat.
• Avoid salt, alcohol, and non-vegetarian food.
• Do not break the fast before moonrise.
• Avoid anger, harsh speech, and unnecessary arguments.
• Do not treat the vrat as a routine or mechanical ritual.

Observing the vrat without faith or patience reduces its spiritual value.

Why Following the Rules Matters

According to tradition, Sankashti Chaturthi vrat works best when observed with faith, restraint, and emotional balance. The discipline of fasting helps devotees control impulses and develop inner strength.

Spiritually, the vrat is believed to remove obstacles and reduce anxiety. Emotionally, it encourages patience and calmness. When observed sincerely, Sankashti Chaturthi becomes a day of reflection and renewal rather than just a fasting ritual.

FAQs 

Q1. When is Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026?
Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026 will be observed on Thursday, 5 February.

Q2. What is the moonrise time on Sankashti Chaturthi 2026?
The moonrise time is 09:35 PM on 5 February 2026, as per Indian local time.

Q3. Why is Sankashti Chaturthi important?
It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is believed to remove obstacles, reduce mental stress, and bring stability in life.

Q4. What food is allowed during Sankashti Chaturthi fast?
Fruits, sabudana, potatoes, peanuts, milk, and vrat-friendly foods are allowed. Grains and regular meals are avoided.

Q5. Is it necessary to see the moon before breaking the fast?
Yes. According to tradition, the fast should be broken only after moonrise and moon worship.

Conclusion

Sankashti Chaturthi 2026 is a deeply meaningful spiritual observance for devotees seeking clarity, strength, and freedom from obstacles. By following the correct date, muhurat, puja vidhi, and vrat discipline, devotees can align their mind and actions with devotion and patience. When observed with sincerity, this vrat brings inner balance and lasting peace.