Sakat Chauth is a Hindu festival observed primarily in North India. It falls on the fourth day of the waning moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Magh according to the Hindu calendar. This year, Sankati Chauth will be observed on January 17, 2025.
The festival is dedicated to Goddess Sakat, who is believed to be the protector of children. Married women observe a fast on this day for the well-being and prosperity of their children. They perform special prayers and rituals to seek blessings from Goddess Sakat.
Sakat Chauth is also associated with Lord Ganesha, who is worshipped for removing obstacles and bringing good fortune. Devotees perform puja to Lord Ganesha on this day and seek his blessings for a happy and prosperous life.
Sankati Chauth Rituals
- Wake up before sunrise, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Observe a full or partial fast throughout the day.
- Set up a clean area for worship. Decorate with flowers, incense, and lamps.
- Place the Lord Ganesha idol on the altar. Offer prayers, chants, and perform aarti.
- In the evening, after seeing the moon, offer prayers and break the fast with fruits and prasad (offerings).
Things To Do on Sankati Chauth 2025
- Start the day early in the morning with a holy bath before sunrise and wear clean clothes.
- For the worship of Lord Ganesha and Sankati Chauth mata decorate a place with flowers, incense, and sweets.
- Refrain from eating grains and observe a partial or full-day fast.
- Perform puja with chanting of mantras, katha, and offerings to Lord Ganesha.
- Listen to or read the Sankashti Chaturthi story.
- After puja, look at the moon and offer prayers.
- Once the moon is sighted, break the fast with fruits, milk, and vrat-specific or Satvik food.
- Offer water, flowers, and rice to the moon.
- Donate to those in need as a part of the celebration.
- Enjoy the evening with family and friends.
Things Not To Do Sankati Chauth 2025
- Avoid eating meat, fish, and eggs during the fast.
- Do not consume alcohol and tobacco products throughout the day.
- Sleeping during the fasting hours of the Sankati Chauth fast is considered disrespectful.
- Avoid negative thoughts, anger, and jealousy, as they are believed to negate the positive effects of the fast.
- Refrain from engaging in any activities that may cause harm to others, both physically and emotionally.
- Never cut your hair or nails during the fast it is considered unauspicious.
- Wearing black clothes on Sankati Chauth is also disrespectful.
- Avoid consuming certain foods such as garlic, onion, and sour foods, as they are believed to be impure.
- Avoid arguments and conflicts with family members or others.
- Do not break the fast before sighting the moon.
