Mumbai, 4th September 2024: As Ganesh Chaturthi, one of the most awaited festivals in India, approaches, devotees are keen to know the exact date to celebrate and observe the traditional fast. This year, there seems to be some confusion over whether Ganesh Chaturthi falls on the 6th or 7th of September.
According to Hindu Panchang, Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is celebrated on the Chaturthi Tithi (fourth day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. The auspicious time for Ganesh Sthapana (installation of Lord Ganesha’s idol) is determined by the sighting of the moon, which plays a crucial role in deciding the exact date.
Confusion Over Dates
This year, the Chaturthi Tithi begins on the 6th of September, 2024, at 12:32 PM and ends on the 7th of September, 2024, at 2:42 PM. Due to this overlap, some calendars mark the festival on the 6th, while others suggest the 7th as the ideal day for celebration and fasting.
Which Day to Fast?
Experts in Hindu rituals suggest that the Ganesh Chaturthi fast should ideally be observed on the day when the Chaturthi Tithi is prevalent during the morning hours. For 2024, this means the fast is most auspicious on the 7th of September. Devotees are encouraged to begin their fast early in the morning on the 7th and break it after performing Ganesh Puja in the evening.
Rituals and Celebrations
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the beginning of the 10-day festival where devotees bring home idols of Lord Ganesha, perform daily prayers, and immerse the idols in water bodies on Anant Chaturdashi. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, especially in Maharashtra.
To ensure you observe Ganesh Chaturthi on the most auspicious day, it is recommended to fast on 7th September 2024. May Lord Ganesha bless all with wisdom, prosperity, and happiness during this festive season.
