Vikat Sankashti Chaturdashi, विकट संकष्टी चतुर्दशी

Vikat Sankashti Chaturthi, a revered occasion among Hindus, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and predominantly celebrated in Maharashtra, India. It occurs on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) of each Hindu lunar month, though its prominence escalates when it coincides with the month of Magha (January-February) according to the traditional Hindu lunar calendar.

Highlight

Vikat Sankashti Chaturdashi by Astrologer K.M. Sinha (विकट संकष्टी चतुर्दशी)-

What do people do on this day?

On this day, devotees observe fasts and perform pujas (rituals) to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and prosperity. The fast usually begins at sunrise and ends after the moonrise, with the sighting of the moon being an essential part of the rituals. Special prayers, hymns, and offerings are made to Lord Ganesha during the day, culminating in the breaking of the fast after moonrise.

Story associated with Vikat Sankashti chaturdashi

One ancient tale related to Vikat Sankashti Chaturthi involves the devout King Shursen and his devoted wife, Rani Vrinda. Legend has it that the couple ardently worshiped Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings for a child. Despite their sincere prayers, they remained childless for many years.

On one Vikat Sankashti Chaturthi, as the couple performed their rituals with utmost devotion, they encountered a beggar seeking alms. Moved by compassion, Rani Vrinda offered him food with reverence. Pleased by her generosity and devotion, the beggar revealed himself to be Lord Ganesha in disguise.

Lord Ganesha then blessed the couple and promised them a child. True to his word, Rani Vrinda soon conceived and gave birth to a son, whom they named Gajanan. Gajanan grew up to be a noble and virtuous prince, bringing immense joy to his parents and the kingdom.

This tale illustrates the significance of devotion and selflessness during the observance of Vikat Sankashti Chaturthi. It emphasizes the belief that sincere prayers and acts of kindness can invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha and fulfill one’s heartfelt desires.

Pooja Procedure

Purify Yourself: Begin by taking a bath and wearing clean clothes as a mark of purity.

Preparation of Pooja Space: Set up a clean and sacred space for the pooja. Place a picture or idol of Lord Ganesha on a decorated altar.

Ganesh Pooja Vidhi: Perform the pooja with devotion, following these steps:

Light an oil lamp or ghee lamp.

Offer flowers, especially Durva grass (Cynodon dactylon), to Lord Ganesha.

Offer fruits, especially Modak (a sweet dumpling considered to be Lord Ganesha’s favorite).

Offer coconut and other sweets.

Chant mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha, such as the Ganesh Gayatri mantra or the Ganesh Atharvashirsha.

Recite devotional songs or bhajans praising Lord Ganesha.

Observing Fast: If possible, observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise. Consume only fruits, milk, or other fasting-friendly foods during this period.

Moonrise Sighting: Await the moonrise eagerly, as it holds special significance on this day. Once the moon is visible, break your fast by consuming water or Prasad (food offered to the deity).

Prayer and Devotion: Offer prayers to Lord Ganesha, expressing gratitude and seeking his blessings for the removal of obstacles and fulfillment of desires.

Distribution of Prasad: Share the Prasad with family members and friends, spreading the joy and blessings of the occasion.

Charity: As an act of compassion and kindness, consider donating food, clothes, or money to the needy on this auspicious day.

Reflection and Meditation: Spend some time in quiet reflection and meditation, contemplating on the teachings and blessings of Lord Ganesha.

Conclusion: Conclude the pooja with a final aarti (ceremony of waving lighted wicks before the deity) and seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for prosperity, success, and spiritual growth.