Sakat Chauth, also known as Til Chauth or Sankashti Chaturthi (Magha Krishna Paksha), is one of the most spiritually powerful vratas dedicated to Lord Ganesha. In 2026, Sakat Chauth will be observed on Tuesday, 6 January, and holds special importance for mothers praying for the long life, health, and protection of their children.
This vrat is deeply rooted in devotion, discipline, and surrender, symbolising a mother’s unconditional prayer to remove obstacles from her child’s destiny.
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What Is Sakat Chauth?
Sakat Chauth is observed on the Krishna Paksha Chaturthi of Magha month according to the Hindu Panchang.
The word “Sakat” refers to danger, suffering, or obstacles, and this vrat is believed to protect children from hidden dangers, illnesses, and karmic obstacles.
Unlike regular Ganesh Chaturthi, Sakat Chauth vrat is broken only after Moon darshan, making it a strict and sacred observance.
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Spiritual Significance of Sakat Chauth
Sakat Chauth carries profound spiritual meaning:
- It is a protective vrat, especially for children.
- It strengthens the mother–child karmic bond.
- It invokes Lord Ganesha as Vighnaharta—the remover of unseen obstacles.
- It is believed to neutralise negative planetary influences, especially Moon-related emotional or mental distress in children.
In Vedic belief, observing this vrat with faith brings:
- Good health and longevity to children
- Removal of fear, accidents, and delays
- Blessings of wisdom, stability, and prosperity
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Why Is Fasting Observed on Sakat Chauth?
Fasting on Sakat Chauth is not merely ritualistic—it is intentional devotion.
The vrat symbolises:
- Sacrifice for the well-being of children
- Self-control and spiritual discipline
- Surrendering maternal anxiety to divine protection
Many mothers observe a nirjala vrat (without water), while others follow a phalahar vrat, depending on health and capacity. What matters most is bhav (intention) rather than severity.
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Importance of Tilkut on Sakat Chauth
Til (sesame seeds) and jaggery form the heart of Sakat Chauth offerings.
Why Til and Jaggery?
- Til absorbs negativity and balances planetary energies.
- Gur (jaggery) symbolises sweetness, nourishment, and emotional warmth.
- Together, Tilkut represents protection, stability, and karmic purification.
Offering Tilkut to Lord Ganesha is believed to:
- Reduce fear and instability in children’s lives
- Strengthen immunity and vitality
- Bring sweetness after hardship
Tilkut is offered during puja and later distributed as prasad.
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Sakat Chauth Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step)
- Wake up early, bathe, and take a sankalp for the vrat.
- Clean the puja space and place Lord Ganesha idol or image.
- Offer:
- Durva grass
- Tilkut or til-jaggery laddoos
- Modak or fruits
- Flowers and diya
- Chant:
- “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah” (108 times)
- Sankashti Ganesh Stotra or simple Ganesh mantra
- Meditate on Lord Ganesha removing obstacles from your child’s life.
- Observe fast till Moonrise.
- After Moon darshan and arghya, break the fast.
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Sakat Chauth 2026 Puja Timing (As Per Panchang)
Date: Tuesday, 6 January 2026
- Chaturthi Tithi: Krishna Paksha, Magha Month
- Daytime Puja: Morning to afternoon (after sunrise)
- Moonrise & Vrat Parana: After Moonrise in the evening
(Moonrise timing may vary by location; kindly refer to your local Panchang for exact time)
It is essential to perform Moon darshan before consuming food, as this completes the vrat.
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Who Should Observe Sakat Chauth?
- Mothers praying for children’s health and safety
- Parents facing repeated obstacles or illnesses related to children
- Women seeking blessings for conception or child well-being
- Those experiencing emotional or mental stress connected to Moon energy
Even women without children may observe this vrat for future blessings and karmic healing.
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A Soul Reminder
Sakat Chauth teaches us that not all protection comes through control—
Some protection flows through faith, surrender, and prayer.
When a mother fasts on Sakat Chauth, she is not asking for perfection—
She is asking the Universe to walk beside her child.
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With love & cosmic guidance,
Himani Goyal Soul Studio
🌐 himanigoyal21.com
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