Sakat Chauth 2026: Powerful Vrat Katha, Rituals & Moonrise Timings on January 6

Sakat Chauth, also known as Sankashti Chaturthi, falls on January 6, 2026, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha for removing obstacles and ensuring children's well-being. Mothers observe this fast to pray for their sons' longevity, protection from harm, and prosperity.

The vrat begins at sunrise and is a nirjala fast (without food or water) for many, broken only after moonrise around 8:54 PM on January 6, following arghya to the moon. This practice symbolizes maternal resolve and transfers spiritual protection to children against illness, accidents, and life's hurdles[2][1].

Worship centers on Lord Ganesha as Vighnaharta, the obstacle remover. Devotees chant shlokas like "Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha. Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarvakaryeshu Sarvada," seeking wisdom, success, and freedom from troubles. The fast also mitigates effects of malefic Mercury in birth charts and aids couples facing conception challenges[1][3].

The iconic Sakat Chauth Vrat Katha recounts a poor woman's devotion. Once, a destitute mother with seven sons faced starvation. On Sakat Chauth, Lord Ganesha disguised as a saint demanded her youngest son as alms. Trusting in divine intervention, she offered him. Pleased by her selfless faith, Ganesha revived the boy, blessed her family with prosperity, and declared that sincere devotees observing this vrat would conquer all obstacles[3][1].

Another legend ties to Ganesha's origin: After Shiva severed Parvati's son’s head, he revived him with an elephant's head. Shiva proclaimed that Sankashti Chaturthi worship would resolve all 'sankat' (troubles), granting health, wealth, and happiness[1]. These stories emphasize respecting parents, pure devotion over wealth, and Ganesha's protective grace[3].

Puja vidhi involves cleaning the home, setting up a Ganesha idol with modak, durva grass, and sweets. Evening rituals include katha recitation, aarti, and moon offerings. Regional variations allow phalahar (fruit diet) for health reasons, but intention matters most—steadfast prayer for family protection[2][1].

In 2026, some debate if it's January 6 or 7 due to tithi timing, but Chaturthi prevailing during daytime confirms January 6 as the observance date[3]. This timeless tradition offers modern families a pause for faith amid uncertainties.