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fasts and vrats

What is Sankashti Chaturthi and how does it differ from Vinayaka Chaturthi?

Sankashti Chaturthi and Vinayaka Chaturthi are two monthly fasts for Ganesha, falling on different moon phases. Sankashti comes on the dark moon each month and is broken after seeing the moon at night. Vinayaka Chaturthi comes on the bright moon, most famously in the month of Bhadrapada as Ganesh Chaturthi.

Sankashti Chaturthi

Sankashti Chaturthi falls on the fourth day of the dark moon, or Krishna Paksha, every month. People fast through the day and break the fast only after they sight the moon in the evening. Ganesha is worshipped during this fast. When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is called Angaraki Sankashti and is believed to be especially powerful and auspicious. The fast is seen as a way to seek Ganesha's blessings for removing obstacles and bringing good fortune.

Vinayaka Chaturthi

Vinayaka Chaturthi falls on the fourth day of the bright moon, or Shukla Paksha. The most well-known is Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi, which is celebrated widely as Ganesh Chaturthi. This is a major festival with public processions, clay idols, and community worship. Other Vinayaka Chaturthi dates come each month too, but they are less prominent. The rules for fasting and moon-sighting differ from Sankashti Chaturthi.

How they are kept today

Sankashti Chaturthi is observed more quietly, usually at home. People who follow it mark it every month. Ganesh Chaturthi in Bhadrapada is a major public celebration in many parts of India and in diaspora communities, with temples, homes, and streets decorated. Both honour Ganesha, but Ganesh Chaturthi is far more visible and widely known. Practices vary by region and family tradition.

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How we write. We describe what the tradition holds, drawing on its texts and customs in general terms. We do not give religious, medical, or dietary advice, and we note plainly where there is no scientific evidence. Reviewed for accuracy by our editorial team.