Sakat Chauth, also known as Sankashti Chaturthi, Tilkut Chauth, or Maghi Chauth, is a Hindu fast dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Sakat Mata, primarily observed by mothers for the safety, health, and prosperity of their children. The vrat falls on the fourth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Magha in 2026, which is January 6.

Unlike other fasts, Sakat Chauth is broken only after moonrise. Devotees offer arghya—water mixed with milk, sesame seeds, grains, and flowers—to the moon and pray to Lord Ganesha before consuming food. The intention, patience, and devotion behind the ritual are considered more important than physical visibility of the moon.

City-wise moonrise timings for Sakat Chauth 2026:

CityMoonrise (Approx.)
Delhi08:54 PM
Mumbai09:23 PM
Kolkata08:15 PM
Chennai08:59 PM
Bengaluru09:10 PM
Hyderabad09:02 PM
Jaipur09:03 PM
Ahmedabad09:20 PM
Pune09:20 PM
Chandigarh08:54 PM

Note: Timings may vary slightly depending on local conditions. Devotees are advised to confirm with local panchang or temple authorities.

How to observe Sakat Chauth vrat:

  • Begin the fast at sunrise and maintain it until moonrise.
  • Take a bath, wear clean clothes, and perform sankalp (vow) to keep the fast.
  • Prepare a clean space for puja and place an idol or image of Lord Ganesha on a chowki.
  • Offer til-gud laddoos, modak, seasonal fruits, sweet potatoes, durva grass, red flowers, and a diya.
  • Include sesame seeds (til), symbolising warmth, resilience, and nourishment.

What to do if the moon is not visible:

  • Offer arghya at the earliest possible time when the moon is visible.
  • If clouds or fog obscure the moon, devotees can:
  • View a live video of the moonrise from another city.
  • Use a photograph of the moon captured on the same night.
  • Join friends or family via video call to collectively offer arghya.
  • The key principle is devotion and intention, which holds more significance than physical sighting.

Why Sakat Chauth is important:

The fast is a spiritual practice promoting self-control, patience, and protection for children. Devotion to Lord Ganesha and the symbolic act of offering arghya to the moon are believed to remove obstacles, bring mental peace, and bless children with long life, good health, and safety from harm.

(Disclaimer: This article reflects traditional beliefs and practices. Devotees should follow what aligns with their health, faith, and local customs.)