Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Moonrise time, rituals and the correct way to observe the fast for Lord Ganesha’
In February 2026, the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi of Phalguna month will be celebrated as Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi, a sacred occasion believed to help devotees overcome hardships and invite prosperity, peace and success into their lives.
From the correct moonrise time to simple puja steps at home, here’s everything you need to know.
When is Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2026?
Devotees will observe the fast on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
Important timings:
- Chaturthi Tithi begins: 12:09 AM, February 5
- Chaturthi Tithi ends: 12:22 AM, February 6
- Moonrise time (Krishna Paksha): 09:35 PM
The fast is traditionally broken only after sighting the moon and offering prayers to Lord Ganesha at night.
Why is Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi significant?
Sankashti Chaturthi is dedicated entirely to Lord Ganesha, the deity worshipped as the destroyer of obstacles and the harbinger of good fortune.The word Sankashti means relief from troubles, and devotees believe that sincere prayers on this day can:
- Remove life’s hurdles
- Bring success in career and studies
- Improve relationships and family harmony
- Fulfil long-standing wishes
- Bless couples seeking children
Many followers observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, spending the day in prayer, chanting and temple visits.
How to perform Sankashti Chaturthi puja at home?
The rituals are simple and can be performed with devotion at home.
Step-by-step puja rituals:
Begin the day with an early bath and clean your home, especially the prayer area. Set up a small altar with an idol or image of Lord Ganesha. Place a kalash filled with water and light a diya using desi ghee.
Apply a turmeric tilak to the idol and decorate it with flowers or a garland. Offer traditional prasad such as bananas, panjiri, boondi laddoos and durva grass, which is considered especially dear to Ganesha.
Chant mantras, read the Sankashti Chaturthi katha, and perform aarti in the evening. After moonrise, offer water (arghya) to the moon and then break your fast.
Powerful Ganesha mantras to chant
Reciting mantras is believed to enhance the spiritual benefits of the vrat. Some commonly chanted mantras include:
- Om Gan Ganpataye Namah
- Om Shri Ganeshaye Namah
- Vakratunda Mahakaya mantra for removing obstacles
Even a few minutes of chanting with focus and devotion can bring a sense of calm and positivity.
Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi: A day of faith and fresh beginnings
Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi is more than just a fast, it’s a day to pause, reflect and reconnect with faith. Whether you visit a temple or pray quietly at home, the essence lies in sincerity.
As devotees believe, when Lord Ganesha is pleased, paths clear, worries ease and new beginnings unfold.
