Ganesh Jayanti is a sacred Hindu festival that marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the beloved deity of wisdom, prosperity and new beginnings. Observed mainly in Maharashtra and parts of western India, the festival falls during the Hindu month of Magh and is also known as Magha Shukla Chaturthi, Tilkund Chaturthi and Varad Chaturthi. On this day, devotees worship Lord Ganesha to seek blessings for success, removal of obstacles and fulfilment of wishes.

Unlike Ganesh Chaturthi, which celebrates the arrival of Ganesha to earth, Ganesh Jayanti commemorates His divine birth. The festival holds deep spiritual importance, symbolising fresh starts, inner clarity and the power to overcome challenges.

Ganesh Jayanti 2026 date and puja timings

According to Drik Panchang, Ganesh Jayanti 2026 will be observed on Thursday, January 22.

Chaturthi Tithi begins: 2:47 AM on January 22

Chaturthi Tithi ends: 2:28 AM on January 23

The most auspicious time for worship, known as Madhyahna Ganesh Puja Muhurat, is from 11:29 AM to 1:37 PM on January 22.

The Abhijit Muhurat falls between 12:16 PM and 1:00 PM.

Devotees are traditionally advised to avoid moon sighting between 9:22 AM and 9:19 PM on this day.

Significance of Ganesh Jayanti 2026

Lord Ganesha is revered as Vighnaharta (the remover of obstacles) and the deity of wisdom, knowledge and auspicious beginnings. Ganesh Jayanti 2026 offers devotees an opportunity to pray for success in education, careers, business ventures and personal life.

The festival also encourages introspection and spiritual growth, reminding followers to begin new journeys with humility, faith and devotion. Many believe that sincere prayers offered on this day bring clarity of thought, protection from hardships and long-lasting prosperity.

Devotees begin the day by waking up early, taking a holy bath and cleaning their homes to prepare for the puja. An idol or picture of Lord Ganesha is installed at the place of worship and decorated with flowers, durva grass and vermillion.

Traditional offerings include til modak or tilkut, a sweet made from roasted sesame seeds and jaggery, which is considered Lord Ganesha’s favourite. Incense sticks, lamps, fruits and sweets are offered while chanting Ganesh mantras and performing aarti.

Many devotees observe a fast throughout the day, breaking it after completing the puja during the auspicious tithi period. Acts of charity, feeding the needy and sharing prasad are also considered highly meritorious on Ganesh Jayanti 2026.