When is Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026?

When is Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026?

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi is an important Hindu fasting day dedicated to Lord Ganesha, worshipped as the remover of obstacles (Vighna). Among all Sankashti Chaturthi fasts observed throughout the year, this one holds special significance as it falls during the sacred period of Pitru Paksha.

In 2026, Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi will be observed on:

• Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026
• Moonrise Time: 07:44 PM
• Chaturthi Tithi Begins: 05:09 PM on September 29, 2026
• Chaturthi Tithi Ends: 02:55 PM on September 30, 2026

What is Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi?

Let’s understand the meaning in simple words:

• Vighna = Obstacles or problems
• Raja = King or ruler

 Vighnaraja means “the king who removes obstacles,” which is one of the names of Lord Ganesha.

So, Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi is a special Sankashti Chaturthi dedicated to the form of Lord Ganesha who removes all difficulties from life.

When is Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi?

Sankashti Chaturthi is observed every month on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase).

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi usually falls in the month of Ashwin (September–October).

In 2026:

The exact date may vary based on the lunar calendar, but it will fall in the Ashwin Krishna Chaturthi period.

 The fast is observed from sunrise to moonrise on that day.

Who is Lord Vighnaraja?

Lord Vighnaraja is a form of Lord Ganesha.

Why He Is Worshipped:

• He removes obstacles
• He gives wisdom and success
• He protects devotees from problems

He is always worshipped before starting any important work.

Complete List of Sankashti Chaturthi in 2026

Here is the full list of Sankashti Chaturthi dates in 2026:

Date	Day	Name
January 6	Tuesday	Sakat Chauth / Lambodara Sankashti
February 5	Thursday	Dwijapriya Sankashti
March 6	Friday	Bhalachandra Sankashti
April 5	Sunday	Vikata Sankashti
May 5	Tuesday	Ekadanta Sankashti
June 3	Wednesday	Vibhuvana Sankashti
July 3	Friday	Krishnapingala Sankashti
August 2	Sunday	Gajanana Sankashti
August 31	Monday	Heramba Sankashti
September 29	Tuesday	Vighnaraja Sankashti
October 29	Thursday	Vakratunda Sankashti (Karwa Chauth)
November 27	Friday	Ganadhipa Sankashti
December 26	Saturday	Akhuratha Sankashti

Importance of Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi

This day has special spiritual significance.

1. Removal of Obstacles

It is believed that Lord Ganesha removes all difficulties from life.

2. Fulfillment of Wishes

Devotees pray for success, health, and happiness.

3. Spiritual Growth

Fasting and prayer improve focus and peace of mind.

4. Protection from Problems

Regular observance protects from negative situations.

Why is Sankashti Chaturthi Special?

The word “Sankashti” means freedom from troubles.

 So, this fast is observed to:

• Remove problems
• Overcome challenges
• Achieve success

How to Observe Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi Fast?

Let’s understand the process step by step.

1. Morning Routine

• Wake up early
• Take a bath
• Wear clean clothes

2. Sankalp (Resolution)

Take a simple vow:

“I am observing this fast to seek blessings of Lord Ganesha and remove obstacles.”

3. Fasting

• Keep a fast from sunrise to moonrise
• Some people take fruits or water
• Strict fasting (without food) is also followed by some

4. Worship of Lord Ganesha

Place an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha.

Offer:

• Flowers
• Durva grass (very important)
• Modak (favorite sweet of Ganesha)
• Fruits

5. Chant Mantras

You can chant simple mantras:

• “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”
• “Om Vakratunda Mahakaya…”

6. Read Vrat Katha

Listening to or reading the Sankashti Chaturthi story is important.

7. Moonrise Ritual

The fast is broken after seeing the moon.

Steps:

• Look at the moon
• Offer water (Arghya)
• Pray to Lord Ganesha
• Break the fast

Importance of Moonrise

Moonrise is very important on this day.

• The fast is completed only after seeing the moon
• It symbolizes completion of the vrat

What Can You Eat During the Fast?

If you are not doing a strict fast, you can have:

• Fruits
• Milk
• Nuts
• Sabudana dishes

Avoid:

• Regular grains (in strict fasting)
• Onion and garlic
• Non-vegetarian food

Benefits of Observing This Fast

1. Removes Life Problems

Helps overcome difficulties.

2. Brings Success

Improves career and personal life.

3. Improves Mental Peace

Fasting calms the mind.

4. Strengthens Faith

Builds spiritual connection.

Who Can Observe This Fast?

Anyone can observe:

• Men and women
• Young and old
• Beginners

 There are no strict restrictions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Breaking fast before moonrise
• Doing rituals without focus
• Ignoring cleanliness
• Treating it as a formality

Can You Do This Fast at Home?

Yes, it can be easily done at home.

• No need for a priest
• Keep it simple
• Focus on devotion

Connection with Other Ganesha Festivals

Sankashti Chaturthi is connected to:

• Ganesh Chaturthi

But the difference is:

• Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of Ganesha
• Sankashti Chaturthi is a monthly fast for blessings

Spiritual Meaning

This day teaches us:

• To stay patient
• To trust God
• To remove negativity

Scientific Perspective

Even from a modern view:

1. Fasting Benefits

Helps detox the body.

2. Mental Discipline

Improves focus and control.

3. Emotional Balance

Prayer reduces stress.

Simple Daily Routine for the Day

1. Wake up early
2. Take a bath
3. Observe fast
4. Pray to Lord Ganesha
5. Break fast after moonrise

Final Thoughts

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi is a powerful and meaningful fast dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It helps remove obstacles and brings success and peace in life.

You do not need to follow complicated rituals. What matters most is your:

• Faith
• Devotion
• Sincerity

Final Message

Always remember:

 Lord Ganesha removes obstacles
Faith brings strength
Devotion brings blessings

By observing Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi with a pure heart, you can overcome difficulties and move forward in life with confidence and positivity.