Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi 2026: Why Fasting On This Tuesday Is Believed To Be Extra Auspicious

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Sankashti Chaturthi 2026, observed on Tuesday, January 6, holds special importance for devotees of Lord Ganesha. Falling on a Tuesday, this observance is known as Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi, a combination believed to intensify the spiritual focus of the day. For many, it's not about grand rituals but about pausing, fasting, and asking for clarity when life feels tangled.

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What Is Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi And Why Is It Observed?

Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi is a monthly vrat observed on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the Krishna Paksha, the waning phase of the moon. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, worshipped as the remover of obstacles and the guide through difficult phases.

The word Sankashti itself means relief from troubles. Traditionally, devotees observe a fast from sunrise until moonrise, praying for freedom from personal struggles-whether emotional, financial, or mental. The fast is broken only after sighting the moon and offering prayers to Ganesha, making moonrise the most awaited moment of the day.

The Story Behind Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi

The Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi Katha centres on Lord Ganesha's role as a protector during moments of crisis. One of the widely told versions speaks of a troubled king who lost his kingdom due to a curse. On the advice of sages, he observed Sankashti Chaturthi with devotion, fasting until moonrise and worshipping Ganesha sincerely. His hardships eased, and his kingdom was restored.

Across versions, the message remains consistent: when effort, discipline, and faith come together, obstacles begin to shift. The katha is traditionally read or listened to in the evening, just before moonrise, reinforcing patience and trust over instant outcomes.

Why January 6, 2026 Is Called Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi

When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, it is called Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi. The name comes from Angarak, another name for Mars (Mangal), the ruling planet of Tuesday. Mars is associated with energy, conflict, courage, and action. Ganesha, on the other hand, represents wisdom and restraint.

The day symbolically balances these forces-impulse with thought, struggle with direction. Because of this alignment, Angarki Sankashti is considered more potent than other monthly Sankashti observances, especially for those seeking resolution to long-standing issues.

How the Vrat Is Traditionally Observed

Most devotees keep a day-long fast, choosing the level of strictness based on health and family practice. Some observe a complete fast, while others consume simple, satvik food after sunset.

The evening puja includes offering durva grass, modaks, flowers, and lamps to Lord Ganesha. Once the moon rises, prayers are offered to the moon, followed by Ganesha worship, and only then is the fast concluded. The focus remains on discipline and intention rather than ritual complexity.

The Significance Of Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi 2026

Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi doesn't promise instant fixes. Instead, it asks for restraint, reflection, and faith during uncertain phases. Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi, in particular, is seen as a reminder to slow down when emotions run high and choices feel rushed.

Angarki Sankashti Chaturthi on January 6, 2026, is all about doing less, but with purpose. Whether you observe the fast strictly or simply take time for prayer, the day encourages patience over pressure and clarity over chaos.