Sankadahara Chaturthi refers to a special occasion dedicated to worshipping Lord Ganesha, also known as Vinayaka, with the belief that it removes all obstacles (Sankada) and brings blessings to devotees. This observance is typically held on the 4th day (Chaturthi) of the bright fortnight of the lunar month and is often associated with Vinayaka Chaturthi, a significant festival in Hindu tradition.
What is Sankadahara Chaturthi?
The word Sankadahara comes from two Sanskrit words: Sankada (meaning obstacles or difficulties) and Hara (meaning remover). Together, it implies the removal of obstacles. The day is considered auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, with the hope of receiving his divine grace to overcome challenges in life. Chaturthi refers to the 4th day of the moon’s cycle, which typically falls on a Friday for this observance.
Why is Sankadahara Chaturthi observed?
Sankadahara Chaturthi is celebrated by devotees to seek divine intervention in various aspects of life. The ritual is believed to help resolve a range of personal and worldly issues. People undertake this vow (vratham) and worship Lord Ganesha with the hope of getting rid of obstacles and finding solutions to their problems.
- To overcome marriage obstacles: Individuals facing delays or obstacles in marriage often observe this vratham with the hope of clearing the path for a successful marriage.
- To remove doshas (flaws) in life: Those experiencing ongoing problems, misfortunes, or karmic issues believe that by observing this vratham, they can alleviate these doshas and experience a smooth life.
- To have children: Couples struggling to conceive or seeking the blessings of fertility often observe this vratham, hoping for the gift of children.
- To remove hardships from the sea (symbolic of life struggles): People undergoing financial or personal difficulties (symbolized by the “sea” of troubles) perform this ritual to overcome hardships and find relief.
- To find employment opportunities: Those looking for jobs or career advancement observe Sankadahara Chaturthi, believing that Lord Ganesha’s blessings will help them secure a job or career progress.
Rituals and Worship during Sankadahara Chaturthi:
- Worship of Vinayaka (Ganesha) with sacred offerings:
Devotees offer milk, honey, sandalwood, and fruits to Lord Ganesha. Special prayers are recited, and devotees perform aarti and light lamps (deepaaradhana) to seek blessings. - Chanting and prayer:
Devotees chant the sacred Ganapati mantras or verses like “Vakratunda Mahakaya” to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha. Some also recite the Vinayaka Ashtakshara Mantra or the Ganesh Stotra. - Celebration in temples:
The ritual is widely observed in Ganesha temples where elaborate prayers, music, and dance may accompany the worship. Some temples may also hold special evening prayers with lighting of lamps. - Fasting and devotion:
Many devotees undertake a fast on this day, abstaining from certain foods, and engage in intense devotion to Lord Ganesha. This is considered a way to purify the mind and body and attract divine grace.
Why is Sankadahara Chaturthi important?
This festival is not just about observing rituals but is also seen as an opportunity to remove obstacles from one’s life. Devotees believe that Lord Ganesha, with his wisdom and power, helps in clearing paths, whether in personal, professional, or spiritual matters. It is considered a day to invite prosperity, health, happiness, and success.
Conclusion:
Sankadahara Chaturthi is a powerful observance where devotees pray to Lord Ganesha for the removal of obstacles, misfortunes, and difficulties in their lives. It is an auspicious occasion for worship, reflection, and the hope of receiving blessings for a better and more prosperous life. The belief in Lord Ganesha’s ability to remove obstacles makes this a significant day for spiritual and material progress.
