Vasudeva Chaturthi Timings

2026 Vasudeva Chaturthi

According to the Hindu Panchang, on the Chaitra Shukla Chaturthi Tithi, devotees worship Lord Ganesha in His Vasudeva form. After observing the fast, gold coins are donated to Brahmins. By performing this Vrat with devotion, one attains the abode of Lord Vishnu, who reclines upon the Kshira Sagara, i.e., Ocean of Milk. According to the Mudgala Purana and other Hindu scriptures, worshipping Lord Ganesha during the Madhyahna Kala on this day enhances peace and prosperity.

The Chaitra Shukla Chaturthi Vrat is considered one of the most sacred and meritorious observances in Hinduism, known for bestowing success and fulfillment of desires. It is observed on the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of the Chaitra month and is popularly known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesha Chaturthi. References to this Vrat are found in ancient scriptures such as the Dharmasindhu, Nirnaya Sindhu, Skanda Purana, Ganesha Purana and Bhavishya Purana. Observing this fast with faith and devotion destroys obstacles, brings success in endeavors and grants Siddhi-Buddhi.

According to various scriptures and Shastras, the Chaturthi Tithi is especially dear to Lord Ganesha. Observing the fast on the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi removes all hindrances and ensures success in all undertakings. The Ganesha Purana states -

Meaning - "One who observes the Chaturthi fast with due rites attains the fulfillment of all desires and remains forever free from obstacles."

This Vrat is considered especially beneficial for students, businesspeople, householders and those beginning new ventures. According to the Nirnaya Sindhu and Vrataraja texts, this observance is said to grant success in all undertakings known as Sarvartha Siddhi. In some regions, this fast is also known as the Varada Vinayaka Vrat, during which special Ganesha Yantras are installed and worshipped. The festival is celebrated with great devotion in the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Karnataka.

Vasudeva Chaturthi Vrat Vidhi

A simple method of fasting on the day of Chaitra Shukla Chaturthi has been described. However regional and family traditions may introduce slight variations.

• First, after taking a holy bath early in the morning, wear clean clothes and take a vow, i.e., Sankalpa to observe the fast.
• After that spread a red cloth on a wooden platform at the place of worship and install the idol of Lord Ganesha.
• Worship Lord Ganesha with Durva grass, Laddu, Modaka, Sindura, Shami leaves, and betel nuts while performing Shodashopachara Pujan.
• Then, recite the Ganapati Atharvashirsha, Rinaharta Ganesha Stotra and Sankata Nashana Ganesha Stotra to please the Lord Ganesha.
• After that listen to or recite the Vasudeva Chaturthi Vrat Katha for the completion of the observance.
• According to the Mudgala Purana, on the Panchami Tithi, conclude all rituals by performing Parana i.e. breaking the fast, in the presence of a Brahmin.

Thus, the Chaitra Shukla Chaturthi Vrat is regarded in the scriptures as a sacred observance that destroys all obstacles and fulfills all desires. Observing it with devotion opens the path to happiness, prosperity and success in life.