Sakat Chauth is one of the most significant Hindu observances dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the protector of children. In 2026, Sakat Chauth will be observed with great devotion across India, especially by mothers who observe a strict fast for the well-being, long life, and prosperity of their children.

This sacred vrat is also known as Sankashti Chaturthi, Til Chauth, or Maghi Chauth, depending on the region and local traditions.

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Sakat Chauth 2026: Date and Timings

In the year 2026, Sakat Chauth falls on Tuesday, January 6. Observing the vrat on a Tuesday is considered especially auspicious, as Tuesdays are traditionally associated with strength, discipline, and divine protection.

Sakat Chauth 2026 Panchang Details

• Sakat Chauth Date: Tuesday, January 6, 2026
• Chaturthi Tithi Begins: 08:01 AM on January 6, 2026
• Chaturthi Tithi Ends: 06:52 AM on January 7, 2026
• Moonrise Time on Sakat Chauth Day: 08:44 PM

The fast is traditionally broken only after the darshan of the moon, making the moonrise time extremely important for vrat observers.

Read this: 60+ Sakat Chauth Wishes, Messages, and Captions to Share in 2026

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What Is Sakat Chauth?

Sakat Chauth is observed on the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi (fourth day of the waning moon) in the Hindu month of Magha. This vrat holds special importance for women and mothers, who pray to Lord Ganesha for the safety, health, and success of their children.

Unlike Ganesh Chaturthi, which celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha, Sakat Chauth focuses on his role as a protector and problem-solver, especially in family life.

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Religious and Spiritual Significance of Sakat Chauth

The spiritual importance of Sakat Chauth lies in its deep association with:

• Child welfare and longevity
• Removal of obstacles from family life
• Protection from negative energies
• Blessings for intelligence, wisdom, and prosperity

According to Hindu belief, observing Sakat Chauth with sincerity helps devotees overcome hardships, financial troubles, and health-related concerns. Lord Ganesha is worshipped in his Vighnaharta form, symbolizing the destruction of difficulties.

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Why Is Moonrise Important on Sakat Chauth?

On Sakat Chauth, devotees observe a nirjala vrat (fast without food and water) or a strict fast throughout the day. The fast is broken only after offering Arghya to the moon and seeking Lord Ganesha’s blessings.

In 2026, the moonrise will occur at 08:44 PM, after which:

• Moon worship is performed
• Offerings are made to Lord Ganesha
• The vrat is formally concluded

The moon is believed to amplify positive energies and complete the vrat ritual.

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Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi (Rituals)

Following a proper puja vidhi enhances the spiritual benefits of Sakat Chauth.

Morning Rituals

• Wake up early and take a holy bath
• Wear clean, preferably traditional attire
• Clean the puja area thoroughly

Puja Preparation

• Install an idol or image of Lord Ganesha
• Offer durva grass, til (sesame seeds), modak, and laddoos
• Light a diya and incense sticks

Puja Process

• Chant Ganesh mantras or recite Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha
• Offer prayers for children’s safety and family harmony
• Meditate and maintain purity of thought throughout the day

Evening Rituals

• Wait for moonrise at 08:44 PM
• Offer Arghya to the moon
• Perform final prayers to Lord Ganesha
• Break the fast after completing rituals

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Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha: Importance of Listening

Listening to or reading the Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha is considered essential. The story emphasizes faith, patience, and devotion, highlighting how Lord Ganesha rescues his devotees from adversity when worshipped with sincerity.

It is believed that the vrat remains incomplete without the katha.

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Food and Offerings on Sakat Chauth

Common offerings include:

• Til-based sweets (til laddoo, til barfi)
• Modak or boondi laddoo
• Fruits and milk
• Panchamrit

Til (sesame seeds) are especially important, symbolizing warmth, protection, and spiritual strength during the winter season.

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Do’s and Don’ts on Sakat Chauth

Do’s

• Maintain cleanliness and positive thoughts
• Worship Lord Ganesha with devotion
• Observe the fast according to your capacity

Don’ts

• Avoid negative speech or anger
• Do not consume food before moonrise
• Avoid tamasic foods

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Regional Observance of Sakat Chauth

• North India: Observed mainly by mothers for children
• Maharashtra & Gujarat: Known as Sankashti Chaturthi
• Rajasthan & Uttar Pradesh: Til-based rituals are prominent

Despite regional differences, devotion to Lord Ganesha remains central everywhere.

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Conclusion

Sakat Chauth on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, is a spiritually powerful occasion marked by devotion, discipline, and faith. With Chaturthi Tithi beginning at 08:01 AM, ending at 06:52 AM the next day, and moonrise at 08:44 PM, devotees have clear guidance for performing rituals correctly.

By observing Sakat Chauth with sincerity, worshippers seek Lord Ganesha’s divine protection, ensuring happiness, health, and prosperity for their families—especially their children.