Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Know The Date, Significance, Vrat Katha And Moonrise Fasting Rituals

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Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi 2026 falls on September 29, bringing one of the monthly Ganesha vrats with a specific significance. Since the day falls on a Tuesday, it will also be observed as Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi. Devotees traditionally observe a fast, worship Lord Ganesha and wait until moonrise to conclude the vrat.

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi 2026 Date And Tithi

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi will be observed on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The Chaturthi tithi begins at around 5:09 PM on September 29 and ends at approximately 2:55 PM on September 30, according to Panchang calculations.

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The festival falls during Krishna Paksha Chaturthi. Under the Amanta lunar calendar, it is known as Bhadrapada Krishna Chaturthi, while the Purnimanta calendar refers to the same tithi as Ashwina Krishna Chaturthi.

Why Is It Called Angarki Sankashti?

Sankashti Chaturthi is observed on Krishna Paksha Chaturthi every lunar month and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is traditionally known as Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi. Since Vighnaraja Sankashti falls on Tuesday in 2026, devotees will observe the day as Angarki Sankashti as well.

The name Vighnaraja refers to Ganesha as the deity associated with overcoming obstacles. Traditional accounts connect Vighnaraja with stories involving the defeat of forces that created obstacles for devotees.

Vighnaraja Sankashti Vrat Katha

One traditional vrat katha associated with this Sankashti tells the story of Lord Krishna and his grandson Aniruddha. After Aniruddha was taken to Banasura's city, Krishna was advised by Sage Lomasha to observe the Sankata vrat on Ashwina Krishna Chaturthi. Krishna followed the prescribed observance and eventually defeated Banasura and rescued Aniruddha.

Another tradition, associated with Ganesha's Vighnaraja form, describes his defeat of a powerful obstacle-causing demon. These stories reinforce the association of the vrat with seeking Ganesha's blessings to overcome difficulties.

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat And Puja

Devotees traditionally observe a fast on Sankashti Chaturthi and worship Lord Ganesha with offerings such as durva grass, flowers and modak. Prayers, mantras and aarti may also form part of the puja.

The fast is generally continued until moonrise. After sighting the Moon, devotees offer prayers and conclude the vrat. Since moonrise differs from one city to another, the exact timing should be checked according to the local Panchang.

What Makes Vighnaraja Sankashti 2026 Significant?

Vighnaraja Sankashti Chaturthi 2026 combines the monthly Ganesha vrat with the special significance traditionally attached to a Tuesday Sankashti. For devotees following the observance, September 29 offers an opportunity to worship Ganesha, follow the vrat and seek blessings associated with overcoming obstacles and difficulties.