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Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is observed on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha every month. In 2025, this sacred day falls on Monday, March 17. The Chaturthi Tithi starts at 7:33 PM on March 17 and ends at 10:09 PM on March 18.

Devotees worship Lord Ganesha in his Bhalachandra form, symbolized by the crescent moon on his forehead, which signifies wisdom, peace, and emotional balance. Observing this day through fasting, prayers, and rituals is believed to remove obstacles, bring prosperity, and grant divine blessings.

Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi 2025: Date & Timings

  • Chaturthi Tithi Begins: March 17, 2025, at 7:33 PM
  • Chaturthi Tithi Ends: March 18, 2025, at 10:09 PM
  • Moonrise Timing: 9:17 PM (IST)

Significance of Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi

Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta). His crescent moon symbol links him to Lord Shiva and represents divine wisdom.

Why is this day important?

  • Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day removes difficulties, brings prosperity, and leads to success.
  • Chanting Ganesha mantras on this occasion enhances mental clarity and inner peace.
  • The festival reinforces the connection between Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva, as both deities are symbolized by the moon.

Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi 2025: Special Celebrations

Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi is celebrated across India with great devotion.

State-wise Celebrations:

  • Maharashtra: Grand pujas in temples like Siddhivinayak.
  • Tamil Nadu & Karnataka: Bhajans and kirtans are sung in devotion.
  • North India: Families conduct pujas at home and distribute prasad.

Rituals & Puja Vidhi for Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi 2025

Morning Rituals

  • Take a holy bath and wear clean, traditional clothes.
  • Set up an altar with Lord Ganesha’s idol or image.
  • Offer flowers, durva grass, sandalwood paste, incense sticks, and diyas.

Observing the Vrat (Fasting)

  • Devotees fast from sunrise until moonrise.
  • Some observe a nirjala vrat (fast without water), while others consume fruits and milk.
  • The fast is broken after sighting the moon and completing puja.

Evening Puja

  • The main puja is performed before moonrise.
  • Chant Ganesha mantras, such as:
    • “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah”
    • “Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada”
  • Offer modaks, laddoos, coconut, and jaggery—Lord Ganesha’s favorite items.

Moonrise Rituals

  • Perform Arghya (water offering) to the moon.
  • Pray for wisdom, success, and prosperity.
  • Consume prasad to conclude the vrat and share it with family.

History of Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi

Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions. It is believed that Lord Shiva blessed Ganesha on this day, making him the remover of all obstacles. Devotees fast and pray to seek wisdom, success, and protection from difficulties.

One ancient legend tells of a woman who unknowingly fasted on this day while sick. Lord Ganesha’s blessings purified her soul and absolved her sins. Even the celestial world benefited from her observance, showcasing the power of this vrat.

Things to Avoid During Sankashti Chaturthi

  • Avoid consuming rice, lentils, and wheat-based foods—stick to fruits and milk.
  • Do not smoke or drink alcohol on this sacred day.
  • Maintain cleanliness in your surroundings and attire.

Puja Samagri (Required Items for Worship)

To perform the Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi puja, the following items are required:

  • Idol or image of Lord Ganesha
  • Fresh flowers (especially hibiscus)
  • Durva grass
  • Sandalwood paste
  • Incense sticks
  • Diyas (lamps)
  • Modaks or laddoos
  • Coconut
  • Jaggery

Sankashti Chaturthi 2025 Katha (Sacred Story)

A popular tale associated with Sankashti Chaturthi highlights the spiritual benefits of fasting and devotion. It tells of a woman who unknowingly observed the Sankashti fast while ill. Due to her devotion, Lord Ganesha purified her sins and granted her salvation. This act even restored Lord Indra’s celestial plane, emphasizing the transformative power of Sankashti Chaturthi fasting.

Devotees believe that by fasting, praying, and chanting mantras, one can remove obstacles and gain divine blessings for a happy and successful life.


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