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How to Follow Sankashti Fasting in Hinduism

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Sankashti Chaturthi is an important Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Ganesha, observed on the fourth day after the full moon (Krishna Paksha) every month. It is particularly auspicious for seeking the removal of obstacles, spiritual growth, and blessings for prosperity and wisdom. Here's a detailed guide to observing Sankashti Chaturthi fasting, including practical tips and spiritual practices.

Understanding Sankashti Chaturthi

  • Spiritual Significance: Sankashti Chaturthi means "deliverance from troubles." Devotees believe that fasting on this day, coupled with prayers to Lord Ganesha, can dispel difficulties.
  • Special Observance: If Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is called Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi and is considered highly auspicious.

Practical Steps to Follow Sankashti Fasting

  1. Preparation the Day Before:

    • Wake up early and take a cleansing bath.
    • Mentally prepare for the fast with devotion and positivity.
    • Arrange items required for worship, such as flowers, fruits, incense sticks, a Ganesha idol or picture, and red/yellow clothes.

  2. Fasting Rules:

    • Types of Fasts: Devotees may choose from a full fast (consuming only water) or a partial fast (eating fruits, milk, or specific fasting foods).
    • Avoid tamasic foods (onion, garlic, meat, and alcohol).
    • Break the fast only after sighting the moon and performing Ganapati puja in the evening.

  3. Morning Puja:

    • Rise early, bathe, and wear clean clothes (preferably red, yellow, or white, as they are sacred to Lord Ganesha).
    • Set up a small altar with an idol or picture of Lord Ganesha.
    • Light a diya (oil lamp) and incense sticks, and offer flowers, fruits, and modaks (Lord Ganesha's favorite sweet).

  4. Mantras and Prayers:

    • Recite Ganesha's names or chants such as:
      • Om Gan Ganapataye Namah (108 times)
      • Vakratunda Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha, Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Karyeshu Sarvada (at least 11 times).
    • Perform the Ganapati Atharvashirsha or Ganesha Ashtottara Shatanamavali (108 names of Ganesha) if possible.

  5. Evening Puja and Moon Worship:

    • After sunset, repeat the puja rituals.
    • Sighting the moon is crucial. Offer water, sandalwood paste, and flowers to the moon while praying for the removal of obstacles.
    • Conclude by chanting:
      • Om Somaya Namah (to honor the moon deity).
    • Break the fast after the puja by consuming prasad.

  6. Temple Visit:

    • Visiting a Ganesha temple on Sankashti Chaturthi enhances the spiritual energy of your observance. Offer coconuts, modaks, and garlands to the deity.

Foods Allowed During Fasting

  • Fruits: Bananas, apples, and other non-citrus fruits.
  • Dairy: Milk, buttermilk, yogurt, and paneer.
  • Grains: Sabudana (sago), rajgira (amaranth), singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour).
  • Sweets: Modaks, ladoos, and jaggery-based sweets.
  • Spices: Rock salt (sendha namak) instead of regular salt.

Rare Facts About Sankashti Chaturthi

  1. Connection with the Moon: The moon is believed to radiate special energies on this day, making moon worship vital.
  2. 24 Sankashti Chaturthi Days: Each month’s Sankashti Chaturthi is associated with a form of Ganesha and a specific story from the Ganesha Purana.
  3. Special Fast for Angarki Sankashti: Angarki Sankashti is said to bring the benefits of observing all 24 Sankashti fasts.

Modern Adaptations

  1. Digital Resources: Use meditation apps or online platforms for guided chanting or learning Ganesha mantras.
  2. Sustainable Worship: Replace plastic or synthetic items with eco-friendly offerings such as biodegradable diyas and natural flowers.
  3. Virtual Temple Visits: If unable to visit a temple, participate in online pujas or live-stream temple rituals.
  4. Mindful Fasting: Stay hydrated and avoid fried fasting foods to maintain energy and focus during work or daily tasks.

Clothes to Wear

  • Wear red, yellow, or white clothes as they symbolize purity, energy, and devotion.
  • Choose loose, comfortable attire to stay relaxed while fasting and praying.

Mantras for Specific Blessings

  • For Prosperity: Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah (108 times).
  • For Removing Obstacles: Om Vakratundaya Hum.
  • For Success in Education: Om Siddhi Vinayakaya Namah.

By observing Sankashti Chaturthi fasting with faith and devotion, you invite the blessings of Lord Ganesha into your life. Adapt the rituals to suit your lifestyle while staying true to the spirit of devotion and surrender.