Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi, a significant observance dedicated to Lord Ganesha, will be observed on Monday, March 17, 2025. This auspicious day falls on the Chaturthi (fourth day) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) during the month of Chaitra, according to the Purnimanta calendar followed in North India.
Tithi Timings:
- Start: 7:33 PM on March 17, 2025
- End: 10:09 PM on March 18, 2025
Moonrise Timing:
- Approximately 9:18 PM on March 17, 2025
Puja Muhurat:
Devotees should perform the Ganesh Puja after moonrise, around 9:18 PM on March 17, 2025. This time is considered auspicious for conducting the rituals and breaking the fast.
Vrat (Fasting) Guidelines:
-
Morning Rituals:
- Begin the day with a purification bath during the Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn hours).
- Clean the puja area and install an idol or image of Lord Ganesha.
-
Fasting:
- Observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise.
- Some devotees undertake a ‘nirjala’ fast (without water), while others may consume fruits, roots, and raw vegetables.
Puja Vidhi (Worship Procedure):
-
Preparation:
- After bathing, wear clean attire and prepare the puja altar with Lord Ganesha’s idol or picture.
-
Offerings:
- Light a ghee lamp and offer yellow flowers, which are dear to Lord Ganesha.
- Present ‘Modak’ or ‘Motichoor Laddoo’ as prasad (sacred offering).
- Offer ‘Durva’ grass, symbolizing purity and devotion.
-
Mantra Chanting:
- Recite the mantra “ॐ भालचंद्राय नमः” (Om Bhalachandraya Namah) 108 times to invoke blessings.
-
Narration of Vrat Katha:
- Read or listen to the Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi Vrat Katha, which narrates the significance of this observance.
-
Aarti:
- Conclude the puja by performing the Ganesh Aarti, singing hymns in praise of Lord Ganesha.
Vrat Paran (Breaking the Fast):
Devotees break their fast after sighting the moon and completing the puja rituals. The fast is traditionally broken by consuming the prasad offered during the puja.
Significance:
Observing Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to remove obstacles and bestow wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune upon devotees. Fasting and performing the rituals with utmost devotion are thought to bring the blessings of Lord Ganesha, aiding in overcoming challenges and achieving success in endeavors.
