|| Vakratunda Mahakaya Surya Koti Samaprabha, Nirvignam Kurumedeva Sarvakaryeshu Sarvada!!

The first Vinayak Chaturthi of 2024 falls on Sunday, January 14th, marking the beginning of a new year filled with Lord Ganesha’s blessings. Devotees across India prepare to offer prayers and observe fasts to appease the remover of obstacles and seek his divine grace for success and prosperity.

Significance of Vinayak Chaturthi:

Every month in the Hindu calendar has two Chaturthi Tithis dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The Chaturthi after Amavasya (new moon) during Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) is called Vinayak Chaturthi. In contrast, the one after Purnimasi (full moon) during Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) is known as Sankashti Chaturthi. Though fasting is observed for both, the Vinayak Chaturthi in Bhadrapada holds the highest significance.

Fasting:

Many devotees choose to observe a full-day fast on Vinayak Chaturthi, abstaining from water and food. Alternatively, a partial fast can be observed by consuming fruits and beverages like milk and juices. Fasting is believed to purify the mind and body, enhancing devotion and focus during the puja.

Puja Vidhi:

A traditional puja involves:

• Waking up early and taking a bath.
• Preparing an altar with murti or idol of Lord Ganesha.
• Offering panchamrita (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and jaggery).
• Performing abhisheka with milk, water, and other liquids.
• Clothing the idol in new clothes and adorning it with ornaments.
• Offering modaks (Lord Ganesha’s favorite sweet) and other prasad.
• Chanting mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
• Seeking his blessings for success, wisdom, and removal of obstacles.

Auspicious Time of Worship:

The most auspicious time for puja on Vinayak Chaturthi is during the Madhyahna Muhurta, which usually falls in the afternoon between 11:27 AM and 1:33 PM. However, some may choose to perform puja in the morning or evening based on their convenience and local customs.