Chaturthi occurs twice in every month: once during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) and once during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon). The Chaturthi of Shukla Paksha is known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, while the Chaturthi of Krishna Paksha is called Sankashti Chaturthi. Both dates are dedicated to Lord Ganesha. In 2026, Sankashti Chaturthi falls on the Chaturthi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha. It is also popularly known as Tilkuta Chauth, Magh Sankashti Chaturthi, and Vakratundi Chaturthi. In the year 2026, this fast will be observed for the prosperity and longevity of children.
What is Sakat Chauth?
Sakat Chauth, referred to in the Panchang as Magh Sankashti Chaturthi 2026, is a special fast dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The word 'Sakat' is derived from 'Sankat', which means trouble or calamity. It is believed that observing a fast and worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day averts all crises facing one’s children and family.
According to astrology, if a person's child faces repeated obstacles in life, experts often suggest a kundli check to identify any adverse effects of Rahu or Ketu. In such situations, the Sakat Chauth fast and the adoration of Lord Ganesha are considered infallible remedies to pacify the defects of those planets.
This fast is celebrated with great fervour. It is also called Tilkuta Chauth 2026 because offering 'Tilkut' (made of sesame seeds and jaggery) to the deity is mandatory on this day. It is a Nirjala (waterless) fast, which mothers observe throughout the day for the longevity of their children, consuming water only after offering Arghya (water offering) to the Moon.
Sakat Chauth 2026 Fasting Date and Tithi
In the year 2026, Sakat Chauth will be celebrated in the first week of January. According to the Panchang, the date and timings for 2026 are as follows:
• Sakat Chauth 2026 Date: January 6, 2026, Tuesday
Sakat Chauth Tithi Timing
• Chaturthi Tithi Begins: January 6, 2026, at 08:04 AM
• Chaturthi Tithi Ends: January 7, 2026, at 06:52 AM
Sakat Chauth Puja Time 2026 (Auspicious Muhurat for Puja): The evening prayer time during the Godhuli Bela (at sunset) is considered the most auspicious.
• Moonrise Time: 08:41 PM (Timing may vary depending on the location).
What is special about Sakat Chauth?
This year, Sakat Chauth 2026 is bringing several extremely special and rare auspicious alignments (Yogs).
1. The Grand Alignment of Angarki Chaturthi (Angarki Chaturthi Yog): In 2026, Sakat Chauth falls on January 6th, which is a Tuesday. According to the scriptures, when Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is called 'Angarki Chaturthi.' It is believed that observing a fast on Angarki Chaturthi bestows the merits of all Chaturthi fasts of the entire year at once. This Yog is considered highly fruitful for freedom from debt and for attaining the joy of land and property. To know the exact timing for worship during this rare alignment, scholars suggest seeking Muhurat Consultation, so that prayers offered according to the Choghadiya and Amrit Kaal yield full results.
2. The First Major Fast of the Year: According to the English calendar, this will be the first major fast of 2026.
3. The Day to Avert Crisis for Children: Compared to other Chaturthis, this Chaturthi of the Magha month is the most significant for mothers. It is believed that just as Lord Ganesha protected the lives of the Deities on this day, He similarly protects the children of the mothers who fast from every crisis.
Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha (The Legend of Sakat Chauth)
On the day of Sakat Chauth, it is customary to first perform a ritualistic worship of Mata Sakat or Lord Ganesha, light a lamp, offer Naivedya (food offering), and take a pledge (Sankalp) for the fast. Only after these rituals is it considered auspicious to listen to or read the Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha. Let us begin the legend of Sakat Chauth by remembering the remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesha.
According to the Ganesh Purana, when Shaunak Ji asked about the character of Ganesha, Sut Ji described it, saying Mata Parvati Parvati had two companions, Jaya and Vijaya. Both were exceptionally beautiful, wise, virtuous, and soft-spoken. Mata Parvati held them in high regard. One day, the companions requested Mata Parvati, saying, "Friend, we do not have a 'Gana' (attendant) of our own; therefore, we must surely have a personal attendant."
Surprised, Mata Parvati replied, "What are you saying, friend? We have millions of Ganas who are always ready to follow orders immediately. Why is there a need for another?" The companions replied, "All Ganas belong to Lord Shiva. They consider His orders primary. Even Nandi, Bhringi, and others whom we call ours follow the Lord's commands above all else. If you give an order and Lord Shiva disregards it, no Gana will follow your command. If you ask, some excuse or the other will be given."
Parvati Ji thought for a moment and asked, "Can even these primary Ganas disregard my command?" The companions explained, "None among the primary Ganas truly belong to us; they are all soldiers of Lord Mahadev. They are appointed by Shiva's command to protect us and oversee tasks. Therefore, please create a personal Gana for yourself." Mata Parvati accepted the advice but did not act on it immediately. Time passed, and she gradually forgot about it.
One morning, as Mata Parvati was going to her chamber for a bath, she ordered Nandi, "If anyone comes, stop them," and went inside. Just then, Lord Shankar arrived and tried to enter. Nandishwar prayed and stopped him, saying, "Mother is bathing, so please wait here." To this, Shiva replied, "Let her bathe. I have very urgent work." Disregarding Nandi’s words, Shiva went straight into the bathing chamber. Upon Lord Shiva's sudden arrival, the mother of the Universe felt extremely shy and retreated. Lord Shiva left silently.
After bathing, while dressing, Parvati thought that Jaya and Vijaya’s suggestion was correct. "I ignored them in vain. If a personal Gana of mine were at the door, he wouldn't have let Shiva enter so easily. Nandi disregarded my command. It seems I do not have full authority over all Ganas. There must be one over whom I have full control, who never ignores my orders—my own."
With this thought, she took the sacred paste from her body and created a conscious being from it. He was endowed with all auspicious signs, flawless in every aspect, possessed divine beauty, and was extremely powerful and valiant. Mata Parvati gave him various clothes, ornaments, and blessings, saying, "You are my son. You are my own. No one else is as dear to me as you."
Bowing to her, the boy asked, "Mother! What task do you have for me today? I will fulfil it according to your command." Parvati replied, "Son! You are my own. Listen to me. From today, you are my Dwarpala (gatekeeper). No one should enter my palace without my permission, regardless of who they are or where they come from." She gave him a sturdy staff. Seeing his beautiful form, Parvati was filled with joy; she kissed his face and embraced him. She then stationed Ganesha at the door.
While Parvati bathed with her companions, Lord Shiva, the master of divine plays (Leelas), arrived at the door. Ganesha did not recognize Shiva and said, "Lord! You cannot enter right now without Mother's permission. She has gone to bathe." Ganesha raised his staff to stop him. Seeing this, Shiva said, "Fool! Whom are you stopping? Do you not know me? I am Shiva."
Shiva’s Ganas then came to explain and move him, saying, "Listen, we are the chief Shiva-Ganas and gatekeepers. We have come to remove you by the order of the all-pervading Lord Shankar. We haven't killed you because we consider you a Gana, otherwise, you would have been dead long ago. Move away now. Why are you inviting your death?" Even then, Ganesha stood fearlessly, rebuked them, and did not leave the door.
The Ganas returned to Shiva and narrated everything. Hearing this, Mahadev scolded them, saying, "Ganas! Who is he that speaks like an enemy? Drive this new gatekeeper away. Why are you standing there like cowards telling me news?" When the Ganas returned and were stopped again, Shiva ordered them to find out who he was. They reported, "He is the son of Mata Parvati and is sitting as the gatekeeper."
Lord Shankar then wished to perform a unique Leela and humble the pride of his Ganas. He called upon the Ganas and Deities to wage a fierce war against Ganesha, but none could defeat him. Finally, Mahadev himself arrived with his trident (Shul). Ganesha remembered his mother's feet, and her power (Shakti) granted him strength. All the Gods sided with Shiva, and a terrible war ensued. In the end, Mahadev severed Ganesha's head with his trident.
When this news reached Mata Parvati, she was filled with rage. She manifested many powers (Shaktis) and ordered them to bring about the apocalypse (Pralay). The Shaktis began to cause havoc, their blazing light illuminating all directions. Terrified, the devotees of Shiva fled. At that moment, Sage Narad arrived. The Gods were pleased to see him. Narad Ji, along with Brahma and other Gods, bowed to Shiva and suggested they should all reflect on this matter. They decided that peace would only return if Mata Parvati showed mercy.
Narad, the Gods, and Sages went to the mother to calm her anger. They praised her with hymns and bowed at her feet. They said, "O Jagadamba! Salutations to you. O Consort of Shiva! O Chandika! O Kalyani! You are the primordial power, the creator, protector, and destroyer of the universe. Your anger is distressing the whole world; please be pleased and calm your wrath."
Seeing their humility, Parvati’s heart filled with compassion. She said, "O Sages! If my son is brought back to life and is considered worshipful among you, the destruction will stop. Peace can only prevail if you all grant him the position of 'Sarvadhyaksha' (Supreme Leader); otherwise, you will find no happiness."
Hearing this, the Sages informed the Gods. A cloud of sadness hung over Indra and others. They went to Shiva and pleaded with him. Lord Shiva said, "Fine, we must do what brings happiness to all worlds." He ordered the Gods to go in the North direction and bring the head of the first living being they encountered to be attached to the boy's torso.
The Gods followed his command and headed North. They first encountered a one-tusked elephant. They brought its head and joined it to the boy's torso. After joining the head, they bowed to Shiva, saying their task was complete. Then, Brahma, Vishnu, and other Gods invoked Vedic mantras into the water and sprinkled it on the boy's body while remembering Lord Shiva.
As soon as the water touched him, the boy regained consciousness and sat up as if waking from sleep. The fortunate boy was very beautiful, with the face of an elephant, a green-red complexion, and a radiant smile. Everyone present was overjoyed, and their sorrows vanished. They presented the boy to Parvati, who was extremely happy to see her son alive.
Thus, Lord Ganesha was manifested. Whoever hears or reads this character of Shri Ganesha, He removes the obstacles in their auspicious works, and both the listener and the speaker achieve success in their endeavours.
Sakat Chauth Vrat Puja Vidhi (Worship Rituals)
Following the correct Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi ensures that one receives the full benefits of the fast. While rituals may vary according to local traditions, here is a simplified Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi:
• Bath and Surya Arghya: Wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear red clothing. Offer water (Arghya) to the Sun God.
• Resolution (Sankalp): Take water and rice (Akshat) in your hand and make a sacred pledge for the fast— "O Lord Ganesha, I pledge to observe a waterless (Nirjala) fast today for the protection of my children."
• Evening Prayer: After sunset, spread a red cloth on a wooden platform (Chauki). Install the idols of Ganesha and Gauri and perform the rituals systematically.
• Offering Tilkut: Offer sandalwood paste, flowers, and Durva grass to Lord Ganesha. Following this, offer Tilkut (prepared from sesame seeds and jaggery) or Til ladoos. Additionally, offer sweet potato and guava as per your family tradition.
• Arghya to the Moon: Once the moon rises, offer Arghya consisting of a mixture of water, milk, and vermilion (Roli) to the Moon God.
• Breaking the Fast (Parana): After offering Arghya to the moon, break your fast by consuming the Prasad of Lord Ganesha. According to the scriptures, this fast performed with devotion has the power to remove every obstacle from a child's life.
Sakat Chauth Mantra Chanting
Be sure to chant these mantras during the puja:
• Ganesh Mahamantra: "Om Shri Ganeshay Namah"
• Sankat Nashan Mantra: "Om Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha. Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Karyeshu Sarvada॥"
• While offering Arghya to the Moon: "Om Som Somaya Namah"
Important Things to Keep in Mind (Do’s and Don’ts)
To receive the full benefits of the fast, it is essential to know what to do on Sakat Chauth and what actions to avoid.
Do’s:
• Offering Durva: Offering Durva grass to Lord Ganesha during worship is considered extremely auspicious to please Him.
• Positive Environment: Keep the home atmosphere devotional and happy. Wish your family and friends a Happy Sakat Chauth and seek the blessings of elders and teachers.
• Importance of Charity: Performing Sakat Chauth Daan(Charity) after completing the puja is considered highly meritorious. You should donate sesame seeds, jaggery, blankets, or grains to a Brahmin or the needy.
Don’ts:
• Avoid Tulsi: Never use Tulsi leaves in the worship of Lord Ganesha, as it is strictly forbidden in the scriptures.
• Avoid Black Colour: In auspicious rituals, the colour black is considered a symbol of negativity. Avoid wearing black clothes during the puja; instead, wear red or yellow.
• No Food Before Moon Sight: This fast is only completed after offering Arghya to the moon. Therefore, do not consume food or water without offering Arghya to the Moon.
Astrological Significance of Sakat Chauth
In astrology, the positioning of planets holds great importance, and Sakat Chauth 2026 is directly related to Mercury (the significator of intelligence) and the Moon (the significator of the mind).
• Strengthening Planet Mercury: Lord Ganesha is considered the presiding deity of the planet Mercury. If a child struggles to concentrate on studies or has speech-related issues, worship performed on this day is highly beneficial. Ganesha's devotion helps align Mercury favourably, leading to a sharp and keen intellect.
• Influence of the Moon: The Moon governs our emotions and mind. Offering Arghya to the Moon on Sakat Chauth brings mental peace and ensures prosperity within the family and household.
• Astrological Remedies (Upay): Certain special Sakat Chauth remedies are performed for the happiness of children. For instance, offering betel nut (Supari) and cardamom (Elaichi) to Lord Ganesha on this day helps remove obstacles in a child's career.
If Mercury or the Moon is severely afflicted in your child’s birth chart, you may seek expert guidance for a specific Anushthan.
Consultation with a specialist and performing the recommende d remedies and Vedic Anushthan with proper procedures can bring remarkable and transformative changes in life.
Significance of Sakat Chauth
From both a religious and social perspective, the Sakat Chauth Ka Mahatva (Significance of Sakat Chauth) holds a very deep place in Indian culture.
• Symbol of Maternal Power: This fast is a living example of the immense power within a mother’s prayer, as she performs penance for her children by observing a waterless (Nirjala) fast.
• Seasonal Change and Health: The month of Magha is marked by severe cold. The tradition of consuming sesame (til) and jaggery during this festival helps maintain body heat and boosts immunity. This is essential for health during the changing season.
• Importance for Children: When discussing the Significance of Sakat Chauth for Children, this fast is traditionally observed for the longevity, progress, and bright future of one's offspring.
Traditional Dishes Prepared on Sakat Chauth
Since this festival is also known as Tilkuta Chauth, traditional food items hold a special significance on Tilkuta Chauth 2026. Here are the primary dishes prepared on this day:
1. Tilkut: Tilkut is the main offering (Prasad) of this puja. It is prepared by roasting and crushing sesame seeds and mixing them with jaggery to form a coarse mixture or laddoos.
2. Sweet Potato (Shakarkand): These are either roasted or boiled and consumed as part of the Falahar (fast-friendly diet).
3. Til Ladoo: Special laddoos made from sesame and jaggery or sesame and Khoya (condensed milk) are prepared specifically for the worship.
4. Jaggery Kheer (Gur ki Kheer): In many parts of North India, a special kheer made from rice and sugarcane juice or jaggery is offered to the deity on this day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is Sakat Chauth in 2026?
If you are wondering Sakat Chauth 2026 Mein Kab Hai (When is Sakat Chauth in 2026), according to the Panchang, Sakat Chauth falls on the Chaturthi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Magha on January 6, 2026, Tuesday.
2. How to perform Ganesha Puja on Sakat Chauth?
Perform a ritualistic installation of Lord Ganesha in the evening. If you are searching for Sakat Chauth par Ganesh puja kaise karein (How to perform Ganesh puja on Sakat Chauth), offer Durva grass, Tilkut, and sweet potatoes while chanting the 'Sankat Nashan' mantra, and conclude with the Aarti.
3. Why is the festival of Sakat Chauth celebrated?
Devotees often ask, Sakat Chauth kyu manayi jati hai (Why is Sakat Chauth celebrated?) The reason is deeply religious and emotional. This fast is observed to protect children from all kinds of crises, for their longevity, and for the overall peace and prosperity of the family.
4. When and how to break the Sakat Chauth fast?
A waterless (Nirjala) fast is observed on this day, but the most important question is Sakat Chauth Vrat Kab Toda Jata Hai (When is the Sakat Chauth fast broken?) The correct method is to offer Arghya to the Moon upon its rising at night, and only then conclude the fast by consuming the Til-Gur (sesame and jaggery) Prasad.
5. What should be donated on Sakat Chauth?
First, check the Muhurat in the Panchang to see "Aaj sankashti chaturthi kitne baje tak hai" (Until what time is Sankashti Chaturthi today) so that the puja can be performed at the right time. Charity is of great importance after the puja. If you are thinking about Sakat Chauth ke din kya daan karna chahiye (What should be donated on the day of Sakat Chauth), according to the scriptures, donating sesame seeds, jaggery, and warm clothes is considered best.according to the scriptures, donating sesame seeds, jaggery, and warm clothes is considered best.
