Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: The Vrat Katha, When To Fast And What The Vrat Symbolises

Add as a preferred source on Google

Some fasts are about discipline. Others are about belief Sankashti Chaturthi sits somewhere in between-observed quietly, often privately, yet deeply meaningful for those who keep it.

Photo Credit: Oneindia

On Thursday, 5 February 2026, devotees across India will observe Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi, a day dedicated to Lord Ganesha as the remover of obstacles. If you've ever wondered why this vrat is kept, when it truly begins and ends, and what story lies at its heart, here's everything you need to know.

When Is Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi 2026?

Sankashti Chaturthi falls on Thursday, 5 February 2026. It is observed on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi, the fourth lunar day after the full moon.

Key timings (IST):

• Chaturthi Tithi begins: 12:09 AM, 5 February 2026
• Chaturthi Tithi ends: 12:22 AM, 6 February 2026

Moonrise (Chandrodaya): Around 9:35 PM on 5 February 2026
(Moonrise time may vary slightly by location and is essential for breaking the fast.)

This Sankashti is known as Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi, one of the named monthly observances associated with specific forms and attributes of Lord Ganesha.

The Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha

In ancient times, there lived a learned and elderly Brahmin named Vishnu Sharma. As age weakened him, his sons moved away, and he became dependent on his daughters-in-law. On the day of Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi, Vishnu Sharma went from one daughter-in-law's house to another, requesting help to observe Lord Ganesha's fast. Each of them dismissed him, showing indifference toward the vrat and refusing to arrange even basic worship materials. Deeply hurt, Vishnu Sharma finally reached the home of his youngest daughter-in-law, who lived in poverty but treated him with respect and compassion.

Despite having very little, the youngest daughter-in-law arranged whatever she could for the Sankashti Chaturthi vrat and observed the fast with sincere devotion, worshipping Lord Ganesha and listening to the vrat katha. It is believed that Lord Ganesha, pleased by her faith and humility, blessed her with prosperity and relief from hardship. Over time, her household flourished, while the others realised the importance of devotion, compassion, and the power of observing Sankashti Chaturthi with sincerity.

This katha is traditionally read on Sankashti Chaturthi to reinforce faith, patience, and inner clarity.

Why Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi Is Significant

The word "Sankashti" comes from sankat-difficulty or trouble. The vrat is observed to seek relief from obstacles, whether they are emotional, mental, professional, or personal.

Lord Ganesha is worshipped here as:

• Vighnaharta - the one who removes hurdles
• Buddhi Pradayaka - the giver of clarity and wisdom

Many people keep this vrat during uncertain phases-career transitions, health concerns, family issues, or simply when life feels stuck. It's not about asking for miracles; it's about finding steadiness and direction.

How The Dwijapriya Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Is Observed

This is a day-long fast, traditionally kept from sunrise until moonrise.

Common practices include:

• Bathing early and beginning the day with a simple prayer to Lord Ganesha
• Observing a nirjal fast (without food or water) or a phalahar fast (fruits and vrat-friendly food)
• Avoiding grains, pulses, and regular meals
• Maintaining a calm, mindful approach through the day

The fast is broken only after moonrise, following prayers to the moon and Lord Ganesha.

Puja Rituals To Follow In The Evening

The evening puja is simple but intentional.

Typical offerings include:

• Durva grass
• Flowers
• Modak or laddoo
• Incense and a lit diya

Devotees chant Ganesha mantras such as "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah" and then read or listen to the Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha. After sighting the moon, arghya is offered, prayers are completed, and the fast is concluded.

Who Usually Observes This Vrat?

There's no single reason people keep Sankashti Chaturthi.

• Some observe it for mental peace and stability
• Some for children and family well-being
• Others during periods of delay, confusion, or repeated setbacks

What's common is the belief that Ganesha listens when the vrat is observed sincerely.

Sankashti Chaturthi on 5 February 2026 is all about taking a moment to reflect, and asking for strength to handle what lies ahead. The fast, the moonrise, the katha-they all point to the same idea: obstacles don't disappear overnight, but clarity makes them easier to cross. Whether you observe the vrat strictly or simply take a moment to pray, the essence remains the same-turn inward, seek balance, and move forward with steadier steps.