Vinayaka Chaturthi, also known as Varad Vinayaka Chaturthi, is an important Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is celebrated on the fourth day of every lunar month in the Hindu calendar. This holy day is celebrated with fasting, prayers and various rituals. In January 2025, Vinayaka Chaturthi will be celebrated on January 3, which falls on a Friday, giving devotees a chance to honor Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings of wisdom, patience and fulfillment of their desires.
Vinayaka Chaturthi January 2025: Dates and timings
According to Drik Panchang,
date: 3 January, Friday
Chaturthi date starts: 01.08 am
Chaturthi date ends: 11.39 pm
Vinayaka Chaturthi: Rituals
On Vinayaka Chaturthi, devotees observe a fast and perform specific rituals to honor Lord Ganesha. Major aspects of the rituals include:
Ganesha Puja: The central ritual involves worshiping Lord Ganesha, asking for his blessings of wisdom, patience and removal of obstacles. The puja is usually conducted in the afternoon during the auspicious time known as Ganesh Puja Muhurta.
Fast: Devotees observe fast on this day, which may involve either abstaining from food or eating only fruits and light food. This fast is believed to purify the mind and body while deepening the connection with Lord Ganesha.
Prasad: Offerings of sweets, especially modaks (sweet dumplings considered to be Lord Ganesha’s favourite), are made to the deity. Devotees also offer flowers, incense and other traditional items during the puja.
Prayers and Mantras: Devotees chant prayers and mantras to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha. A widely read prayer is the Ganapati Atharvashirsha, an iconic Sanskrit text that extols the greatness of Lord Ganesha.
Importance of Vinayaka Chaturthi
Vinayaka Chaturthi, though celebrated every month, holds special significance for those aiming to overcome challenges and achieve success. Lord Ganesha, known as “Vighnaharta”, is believed to bestow his devotees with wisdom, patience and strength to deal with life’s difficulties. This festival reminds us of the importance of these qualities for personal development and spiritual advancement.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the festival promotes a sense of community and devotion. It encourages people to come together, participate in rituals and celebrate the presence of Lord Ganesha in their lives.
Vinayaka Chaturthi is an important occasion for Hindu devotees to honor Lord Ganesha and seek his blessings for wisdom, prosperity and success. Celebrated on the fourth day of each lunar month, the festival provides an opportunity for spiritual contemplation, fasting and worship. Whether you celebrate the festival in January 2025 or any time of the year, Vinayaka Chaturthi is a reminder of the transformative power of Lord Ganesha’s blessings in overcoming obstacles.
By following the proper rituals and timing, devotees can ensure that they celebrate this auspicious day with reverence and devotion, deepening their connection with Lord Ganesha and inviting positivity into their lives.
