
Notes: All timings are represented in 12-hour notation in local time of Lancaster, United States with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang day starts and ends with sunrise.
Pausha Shukla Chaturthi Vrat is a highly revered observance dedicated to Lord Ganesha. On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha in His Vighneshvara form with great devotion. On this day, Brahmins are served Laddus and offered Dakshina. Observing this Vrat with sincerity is believed to bring wealth, prosperity and abundance. It is believed that Lord Ganesha was during Madhyahna, hence Madhyahna Kala is considered the best time for Ganesh Pujan.
Lord Ganesha is one of the most beloved and widely worshipped deities in Hinduism. The scriptures describe Him as Pratham Pujya, which means the first deity to be invoked before the commencement of any religious or auspicious ceremony.
In Hinduism, the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi is considered a highly auspicious fast, primarily known as Vinayaka Chaturthi. It is observed on the Shukla Chaturthi Tithi of the Pausha month and is mentioned in sacred texts such as Dharma Sindhu, Nirnaya Sindhu, Skanda Purana, Bhavishya Purana and Narada Purana. The purpose of this Vrat is to remove obstacles, overcome difficulties and fulfill desires.
A simple method for observing the fast on Pausha Shukla Chaturthi has been described. However, there may be slight variations according to family or regional customs.
The merit of observing this Vrat is described as the removal of obstacles and the attainment of success in all endeavors. Those who perform this Vrat with devotion and discipline experience smooth progress in their undertakings. It is especially auspicious for students, traders and individuals engaged in new ventures or creative pursuits.
According to Dharmasindhu and Nirnaya Sindhu, this Vrat is considered among the most powerful and exalted of all observances. Mudgala Purana also elaborates on its great spiritual and material significance.
Thus, the Pausha Shukla Chaturthi Vrat, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is one of the most sacred and effective observances for removing obstacles, attaining prosperity and fulfilling heartfelt desires.