Vikata Sankashti Vrat Katha

Vikata Sankashti Vrat Katha

Mata Parvati asked - "Which Ganesha should be worshipped on the Sankata Chaturthi that falls in the Krishna Paksha of the Vaishakha month (Amanta Chaitra month)? What is the procedure for this, and what should be eaten on that day?"

Lord Ganesha replied - "O Mother! One should observe a fast on Vaishakha Krishna Chaturthi. On this day, after worshipping Lord Ganesha, known as Vikata, one should eat Halwa made from Kamalagatta (Lotus Seeds). O Mother! In the Dwapara Yuga, King Yudhishthira asked this question, and I will describe whatever Lord Shri Krishna said in response. Please listen with reverence.

Lord Shri Krishna said - 'O King Yudhishthira! I am describing the auspicious results obtained by one who has observed this bestowing Chaturthi fast.

In ancient times, there was a renowned and valiant king named Rantideva. Just as fire consumes heaps of grass, he would vanquish his enemies. Rantideva had friendships with Gods like Yama, Kubera, Indra. In his kingdom lived an excellent Brahmin named Dharmaketu. He had two virtuous wives named Sushila and Chanchala. Sushila regularly observed various kinds of fasts and rituals, resulting in her body becoming weak. In contrast, Chanchala never observed any fasts and would eat to her heart's content.

Over time, Sushila gave birth to a daughter with beautiful features, while Chanchala gave birth to a son. After having her son, Chanchala began to taunt Sushila in various ways, mockingly saying - 'Hey Sushila! You weakened your body by observing so many fasts and vows, yet you only gave birth to a frail daughter. On the other hand, I never observed any fasts or vows and remained healthy by eating my fill, which is why I gave birth to a strong son. 'Sushila was deeply hurt after hearing harsh words from her Sautana. In response, she began to worship Lord Ganesha with full rituals. As a result of her devotion to the Sankata Nashaka Ganesha Chaturthi fast, Lord Ganesha appeared in front of her.

Lord Shri Ganesha said - 'O daughter! You have worshipped me with complete faith and devotion, as a result of which I am extremely delighted with you. I know your desire. Therefore, a scholar son who is well-versed with scriptures will be born from your womb.' Having given this boon, Lord Ganesha disappeared from there.

As a result of Ganesh Ji's blessings, Pearls, Corals and other precious gems began to fall from the mouth of Sushila's daughter. After some time, Sushila was blessed with a son. However, shortly after the son's birth, Dharmaketu passed away. Following his death, Chanchala took all of Dharmaketu's wealth and moved away. Despite this, Sushila was able to accumulate a significant amount of wealth in a short time, thanks to the precious gems produced from her daughter's mouth. As Sushila became wealthy, her Sautana, Chanchala, grew envious of her.

One day, while Sushila's daughter was fetching water from the well, Chanchala pushed her into it. Fortunately, Lord Ganesha protected the girl, and she safely returned to her mother. Upon seeing the girl alive, Chanchala had a change of heart and she started pondering - 'How can anyone harm a living being that is protected by God Himself? '

Sushila, upon seeing her daughter safe and sound, was overwhelmed with joy. Embracing her warmly, she said - 'By the grace of Lord Ganesha, you have regained your life. My Gajanana is truly the protector of the helpless. He always safeguards His devotees.'

Moved by the glory of Lord Ganesha, Chanchala repented and approached Sushila, bowing at her feet with deep remorse. She said - 'O Sushila, my sister! I am a great sinner and a wicked person. Please forgive the sins I have committed. You are the embodiment of compassion and you have uplifted both our families. How can a human harm someone who is protected by God Himself? Those who find faults in righteous and virtuous people are eventually destroyed by the consequences of their own deeds.'

Following this, Chanchala also observed the virtuous fast dedicated to Lord Ganesha. By His grace, mutual affection and harmony between the two continued to grow. Lord Ganesha's blessings are so profound that even enemies can turn into friends. The impact of Sushila's devotion and observance of the fast brought about a change of heart in her rival, Chanchala."

Lord Ganesha further says - "O Mother! I have narrated to you the complete account of the past. In this world, there exists no other fast more superior than this, capable of destroying all obstacles."

Mahatmya

Lord Shri Krishna says - "O Dharmaraja! You should also observe the fast dedicated to Lord Ganesha with complete rituals and procedures. The effects of this fast will result in the end of your enemies, and the Ashtasiddhi(s) along with the Navanidhi(s) will bow before you with folded hands. O Dharmaraja Yudhishthira! Along with your brothers, virtuous wife and mother, observe this fast. As a result of this fast, you will soon reclaim your kingdom."