Sankashti Chaturthi is a sacred day in the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Ganesha, known as the remover of obstacles and the symbol of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
Observed on the fourth day after the full moon (Krishna Paksha), this vrat (fast) is particularly revered for granting relief from difficulties and for bestowing clarity and blessings upon devotees.
In 2025, devotees across India and beyond will observe Sankashti Chaturthi on specific dates each month, each day with its own significance, rituals, and spiritual practices.
This blog provides a detailed calendar of Sankashti Chaturthi dates for 2025, the importance of each, and insights into the ritualistic observances that make this vrat so powerful and auspicious.
What is Sankashti Chaturthi?
Sankashti Chaturthi, or Sankata Hara Chaturthi, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and observed every month to alleviate obstacles, hardships, and anxieties. "Sankashti" translates to "deliverance during difficult times," and on this day, devotees fast and pray to Lord Ganesha for his blessings in overcoming life’s challenges.
The significance of this vrat is particularly potent for those facing ongoing difficulties or who seek mental clarity, success, and spiritual growth.
The fast involves abstaining from food until moonrise, followed by a special prayer and offering to Lord Ganesha, who is considered a beacon of wisdom and remover of obstacles.
Sankashti Chaturthi in 2025: Monthly Dates and Timings
Each Sankashti Chaturthi in 2025 falls on a specific day according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Observing each one is believed to bring specific blessings based on the deity’s incarnation or the day’s astrological influence. Here is the detailed monthly schedule for Sankashti Chaturthi in 2025, along with the moonrise timings.
| Date | Event | Moon Timing | Tithi | Begins | Ends |
| January 17, 2025, Friday | Sakat Chauth | 9:09:00 PM | Magha, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 04:06 AM Jan 17 | Ends - 05:30 AM Jan 18 |
| February 16, 2025, Sunday | Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi | 9:39:00 PM | Phalguna, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 11:52 PM Feb 15 | Ends - 02:15 AM Feb 17 |
| March 17, 2025, Monday | Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi | 9:18:00 PM | Chaitra, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 07:33PM Mar 17 | Ends - 10:09 PM Mar 18 |
| April 16, 2025, Wednesday | Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi | 10:00:00 PM | Vaishakha, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 01:16 PM Apr 16 | Ends - 03:23 PM Apr 17 |
| May 16, 2025, Friday | Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi | 10:39:00 PM | Jyeshtha, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 04:02 AM May 16 | Ends - 05:13 AM May 17 |
| June 14, 2025, Saturday | Krishnapingala Sankashti Chaturthi | 10:07:00 PM | Ashadha, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 03:46 PM Jun 14 | Ends - 03:51 PM Jun 15 |
| July 14, 2025, Monday | Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi | 9:55:00 PM | Shravana, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 01:02 AM Jul 14 | Ends - 11:59 PM Jul 14 |
| August 12, 2025, Tuesday | Bahula Chaturthi | 8:59:00 PM | Bhadrapada, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 08:40 AM Aug 12 | Ends - 06:35 AM Aug 13 |
| September 10, 2025, Wednesday | Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi | 8:06:00 PM | Ashwina, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 03:37 PM Sep 10 | Ends - 12:45 PM Sep 11 |
| October 10, 2025, Friday | Karwa Chauth | 8:13:00 PM | Kartika, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 10:54 PM Oct 09 | Ends - 07:38 PM Oct 10 |
| November 8, 2025, Saturday | Ganadhipa Sankashti Chaturthi | 7:59:00 PM | Margashirsha, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 07:32 AM Nov 08 | Ends - 04:25 AM Nov 09 |
| December 7, 2025, Sunday | Akhuratha Sankashti Chaturthi | 7:55:00 PM | Pausha, Krishna Chaturthi | Begins - 06:24 PM Dec 07 | Ends - 04:03 PM Dec 08 |
Note: The moonrise times may vary slightly based on geographical location. Devotees are encouraged to check local listings to confirm accurate timings.
The Significance of Observing Sankashti Chaturthi
Observing Sankashti Chaturthi brings immense blessings to devotees, especially for those seeking relief from personal and professional obstacles. This vrat is also highly effective for mental clarity, wisdom, and the protection of family and loved ones.
The power of Sankashti Chaturthi stems from ancient Vedic scriptures where Lord Ganesha is described as a Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles) and a Mangalakaraka (bestower of good fortune). Observing this vrat regularly instills discipline, fosters a spiritual mindset, and helps devotees cultivate a balanced life guided by wisdom and clarity.
Types of Sankashti Chaturthi: Monthly Variations
Each Sankashti Chaturthi has its own deity form of Lord Ganesha and is associated with distinct legends, attributes, and blessings. Below are the names and variations of Lord Ganesha worshipped in each month:
January (Vakratunda Sankashti Chaturthi): Known for his curved trunk, Vakratunda represents the power to overcome crooked challenges.
February (Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi): Ekadanta is known for his single tusk, symbolizing sacrifice and determination.
March (Mahodara Sankashti Chaturthi): Mahodara, with his large belly, signifies prosperity and the ability to absorb both positive and negative qualities.
April (Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi): Gajanana, the elephant-faced form, represents intelligence and resourcefulness.
May (Lambodara Sankashti Chaturthi): Lambodara is the embodiment of contentment, humility, and inner strength.
June (Vikata Sankashti Chaturthi): Vikata is known for his terrifying form, symbolizing protection from evil and adversity.
July (Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi): Vighnaraja represents the ruler over obstacles, guiding devotees toward peaceful and prosperous lives.
August (Dhumravarna Sankashti Chaturthi): Dhumravarna signifies resilience and patience amidst struggles.
September (Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi): Bhalachandra, adorned with the moon on his forehead, is a symbol of peace and wisdom.
October (Vinayaka Sankashti Chaturthi): Vinayaka, the leader of all ganas, brings guidance and discipline.
November (Ganapati Sankashti Chaturthi): Ganapati embodies leadership, unity, and empowerment.
December (Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi): Another celebration of Gajanana, focusing on overcoming ignorance and embracing knowledge.
Each month’s Sankashti Chaturthi offers devotees an opportunity to worship a unique aspect of Ganesha, aligning their intentions with specific blessings and powers of the deity.
Rituals and Observances on Sankashti Chaturthi
Observing Sankashti Chaturthi involves a series of rituals and practices that connect devotees with the energy and blessings of Lord Ganesha. Here’s a step-by-step guide to observing the vrat:
1. Morning Rituals: Devotees start their day with a bath, a clean mind, and a space free from distractions. They begin by lighting a diya (lamp) and invoking Lord Ganesha with a simple prayer.
2. Fasting: The Sankashti Chaturthi fast can vary in intensity. While some devotees choose a complete fast, others consume only fruits, milk, and water. Traditional Sankashti fasts exclude grains and lentils.
3. Recitation of the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha: Each Sankashti Chaturthi is associated with a story (katha) highlighting the significance of Lord Ganesha’s role as a remover of obstacles. Reading or listening to these kathas is an essential part of the vrat.
4. Ganesha Puja: The puja involves offerings of durva grass, hibiscus flowers, and sweets like modak, which is a favorite of Ganesha. Devotees chant the Ganesha Mantra or other sacred verses, such as the Vakratunda Mahakaya and Ganesha Ashtakam.
5. Moonrise Observance: At moonrise, devotees offer arghya (water) to the moon, symbolizing the culmination of their vrat. This ritual is significant as the moon is believed to hold the power to stabilize emotions and bring clarity to the mind.
6. Concluding the Vrat: After offering prayers to the moon and completing the puja, devotees break their fast, usually with fruits and a simple meal.
Spiritual Benefits of Observing Sankashti Chaturthi
Observing Sankashti Chaturthi yields numerous spiritual and material benefits for devotees:
Clarity and Wisdom: Lord Ganesha is known for his intellect and wisdom. Regular observance of Sankashti Chaturthi cultivates clarity in decision-making and boosts intellectual abilities.
Overcoming Obstacles: Ganesha’s role as Vighnaharta allows devotees to address and overcome obstacles in their lives, whether in relationships, career, or personal growth.
Emotional Balance: The fast and the moon worship at night contribute to emotional stability, promoting peace and reducing stress.
Health Benefits: The fasting ritual has physical health benefits, such as improved digestion and detoxification, while also fostering mental discipline.
Family Well-being: Sankashti Chaturthi is often observed for the welfare of one’s family. Regular observance is believed to protect and bring prosperity to loved ones.
Conclusion
Sankashti Chaturthi in 2025 offers a year-long opportunity for devotees to deepen their connection with Lord Ganesha, nurturing peace, wisdom, and prosperity.
By observing these vrats with sincerity and devotion, devotees align themselves with Ganesha’s divine blessings, experiencing the joy of a life free from obstacles and guided by higher wisdom.