Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi fast begins at sunrise and continues until the sighting of the moon in the evening. (Image: Shutterstock)
This year, Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi falls today on Thursday. Chaturthi tithi begins at 01:46 PM on August 22 and ends at 10:38 AM on August 23.
Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi is a special occasion dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity. Sankashti Chaturthi itself is observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) each month, but when it falls on a Tuesday, it is known as Angarika Sankashti Chaturthi. When this day is dedicated to the form of Ganesha known as Heramba, it is called Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi.
This year, Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi falls on August 22, Thursday. Chaturthi tithi begins at 01:46 PM on August 22 and ends at 10:38 AM on August 23. The moonrise on Sankashti Day will happen at 09:04 PM.
Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi 2024: Rituals
Devotees observe a strict fast on Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi. The fast begins at sunrise and continues until the sighting of the moon in the evening. Some people observe a full fast, consuming only water, while others may eat fruits or specific fasting foods.
On the day of Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi devotees get up at sunrise and take an early bath. After this, the usual prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha.
The main puja is done in the evening after seeing the moon. They offer durva grass, flowers, modaks, and other traditional offerings.
The worship typically includes the chanting of Ganesha mantras and reciting the Sankashti Vrat Katha, a story associated with the day’s observance. The mantra “Om Herambaya Namaha” is chanted during the puja to invoke the blessings of Heramba Ganesha.
The fast is concluded after sighting the moon in the evening. Devotees offer prayers to the moon before breaking their fast. This is followed by the consumption of the prasad that was offered during the puja.
Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi 2024: Significance
Heramba Ganesha is depicted with five heads and riding a lion, symbolizing immense strength, vigilance, and the ability to look in all directions simultaneously. This form is particularly associated with protection from fear and dangers.
Devotees believe that worshipping Heramba Ganesha on this day brings them safety, security and the courage to face any obstacles in life. Sankashti Chaturthi itself is dedicated to overcoming obstacles.
Ganesha is also known as the god of wisdom and intellect. On Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi, devotees seek not just the removal of obstacles but also the clarity and wisdom to make the right decisions.
Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi is considered an auspicious day to start new ventures or projects. Since Ganesha is traditionally worshipped at the beginning of any new endeavour, observing this day is believed to remove any potential hurdles that might arise and ensure a successful outcome.
Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi Wishes
- May Heramba Ganesha bless you with the strength to overcome every obstacle, the wisdom to make the right decisions, and the courage to face every challenge with a smile. Happy Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi!
- On this auspicious day of Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi, may Lord Ganesha protect you and your loved ones from all evils. Ganpati Bappa Morya!
- Wishing you a blessed Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi! May you always walk on the path of wisdom and righteousness.
- May your life be filled with happiness, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Ganpati Bappa Morya!
- May the mighty Heramba Ganesha remove all the hurdles from your life and bless you with peace, prosperity, and happiness. Wishing you and your family a joyous and blessed Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi!
