Sakat Chauth 2026 Vrat: Rituals, Story & Aarti

Sakat Chauth is one of the most revered fasts in the Sanatan tradition, observed for the well-being, prosperity, and long life of children. Falling on the Chaturthi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Magh, this fast is considered highly auspicious. Married women often observe it with the sincere desire of having children, following the rituals meticulously. This guide provides detailed instructions on performing the Sakat Chauth puja, its stories, and the aartis dedicated to Lord Shri Ganesha and Chauth Mata.

Significance of Sakat Chauth Vrat

Sakat Chauth is a fast that combines devotion to both Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and Chauth Mata, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. Observing this fast is believed to bring:

• Protection and well-being for children
• Happiness and prosperity in the family
• Fulfillment of desires, especially for married women seeking children

The fast is also known as Tilkut Chauth, reflecting the offering of sesame and jaggery during the rituals.

How to Perform Sakat Chauth Puja

Morning Rituals

1. Wake up early, take a bath, and meditate.
2. Prepare Til Kutta using white sesame seeds and jaggery.
3. Place a pot of water, Roli, rice, and a bowl containing Til Kutta on a small stool.
4. Draw a Satiya on the pot with Roli and make 13 dots on it.
5. Take some Til Kutta in your hand and listen to or narrate the story of Sakat Chauth.

Offering to Mother-in-law

After the puja, place Til Kutta and some money in a bowl. Take out the Bayna and give it to your mother-in-law or a woman of similar status by touching her feet, as a mark of respect.

Observing the Fast

• Women observe a waterless fast throughout the day.
• In the evening, worship Lord Ganesha and Chauth Mata.
• Offer milk to the Moon God when it rises.
• Place naivedya (food offering) and a mountain of sesame seeds under cover.
• The next morning, sons open it, cut it with a coin, and distribute among brothers.
• In some regions, a goat-shaped sesame structure is made and cut, symbolizing a departure from animal sacrifice.

Mythological Story of Sakat Chauth

The Tale of Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya

Once, Lord Shiva tested his sons, Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya, to determine who could best protect the gods. Kartikeya claimed superiority as the commander of the gods. Ganesha replied, “I can remove the gods’ troubles without being their commander.”

Shiva challenged them to circumambulate the Earth; the first to return would be the bravest. Kartikeya rode his peacock around the Earth, while Ganesha cleverly circled Shiva and Parvati seven times, saying that all pilgrimage places are contained within parents.

All gods, including Kartikeya, accepted Ganesha’s wisdom. From that day, Ganesha is worshipped first among all gods. Those who observe this fast and offer prayers to the Moon God in the evening are believed to receive happiness, prosperity, and the blessing of children.

Second Story of Sakat Chauth

Another legend involves a potter who could not bake clay pots despite his efforts. A tantric suggested sacrificing a child to appease planetary influences. The potter informed the king, who decreed that each household must send a child daily.

An old woman saved her son by advising him to hold a betel nut and durva grass, meditate on Lord Ganesha and Chauth Mata, and enter the kiln safely. Miraculously, her son survived, and all children previously lost were restored.

Since then, Sakat Chauth has been observed annually to honor Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha.

Lord Shri Ganesha Aarti

Jai Ganesh Jai Ganesh Jai Ganesh Deva
Whose mother is Parvati and father is Mahadev.
Merciful, four-armed,
Sindoor on the forehead, riding on a mouse.
Gives sight to the blind, heals the sick,
Blesses the barren with children, and gives love to the poor.
Garlands, flowers, and dry fruits are offered,
Laddus are presented, and saints serve with devotion.
Save the honor of the needy, fulfill my wishes, O Lord.

Chauth Mata Aarti

Om Jai Shri Chauth Maiya, chant with a pure heart to remove all sorrows.
The mountain temple shines with grandeur,
The goddess’s form captivates, and demons are feared.
The decorated temple and swinging umbrella delight devotees,
The lion and sword symbolize strength and protection.
Trumpets and drums play, sixty-four Jogans and Bhairu dance.
Meditators, sages, and gods bow at your feet.
Singing Chauth Mata’s aarti brings prosperity, happiness, and harmony in married life.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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