Sakat Chauth 2026 – Is It on 6th or 7th Jan? Full Muhurat & Puja Guide
- Sonali Singh
- Jan 3
- 3 min read
Is Sakat Chauth 2026 on 6th or 7th January? Know the correct date, puja muhurat, vrat rules, and sanatangyan significance.
The Sakat Chaugh 2026 is an important fasting day for Hindus wherein worshippers pray to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and protector of children. There have been many versions published which say this fast takes place on either the 6th or 7th of January, which can cause added confusion. By following the date outlined in the Panchang as well as timing of the moonrise, this article provides detailed information about Sakat Chaugh 2026 including puja muhurat, fasting rules, rituals, deeper spiritual significance as provided in the ancient texts of sanatangyan, and the philosophical foundation of Ganesha.
What Is Sakat Chauth and Why Is It Important?
The Chaturthi Tithi is observed every month on the Chaturthi of Krishna Paksha. However, the Sankashti Chaturthi that falls in the Magh month holds special importance in Hindu dharma. In North India, devotees lovingly call it Sakat Chauth, while in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, it is widely known as Sankashti Chaturthi or Ganesh Sankathara.
According to Sanatangyan, this vrat is especially observed by mothers and families for the long life, good health, and protection of children. Saints (sadhu) and spiritual guru explain that Lord Ganesha is the first deity to be worshipped because He removes all obstacles (Vighnaharta).
A famous shashtra-based belief says that sincere fasting on this day frees devotees from hidden fears and karmic troubles.
Sakat Chauth 2026: Auspicious Puja Timings
Ganesha Puja Muhurta: 9:51 am – 1:45 pm
Brahma Muhurta: 5:26 am – 6:21 am
Abhijit Muhurta: 12:06 pm – 12:48 pm
Rahukaal: 3:03 pm – 4:21 pm
Devotees perform Ganesha puja during the daytime and break the fast after moonrise. On this day, three auspicious yogas enhance the spiritual potency of the fast:
Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: 7:15 am – 12:17 pm
Preeti Yoga: begins at 8:21 pm
Ayushmaan Yoga: after Preeti Yoga
Nakshatra timings: Ashlesha Nakshatra lasts until 12:17 pm, followed by Magha Nakshatra. A Bhadra period of 46 minutes occurs from 7:15 am to 8:01 am, during which starting auspicious activities or puja is avoided.
Why Do Devotees Observe Sakat Chauth Vrat?
The word Sankashti means “freedom from troubles.” As mentioned in ancient shashtra, worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day helps remove physical, mental, and spiritual obstacles. Whenever Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday it is referred to as Angarki Chaturthi and is highly celebrated as the day of great fortune and greatness.
By following the principles of Sanatangyan, Ganesha provides wisdom, stability, success, and all that is needed to serve the Devine through Worship and devotion towards Him.
Sanskrit Quote (from Ganapati Atharvashirsha):
त्वमेव प्रत्यक्षं तत्त्वमसि।
“You are the visible manifestation of the supreme truth.”
This verse displays how Ganesha embodies the divine consciousness.
Rituals and Fasting Rules of Sakat Chauth
The Sakat Chauth vrat is considered strict and spiritually purifying. Devotees fast from sunrise until moonrise.
Fasting Guidelines
Avoid grains and salt
Consume only fruits, roots, and plant-based foods
Common foods include sabudana khichdi, peanuts, potatoes, and til-based sweets
After performing Ganesha puja in the evening, devotees offer water to the moon and then break the fast.
Sanskrit Quote (from Skanda Purana):
विघ्नान् हन्ति गणाध्यक्षः भक्तानां भयहारकः।
“Lord Ganesha destroys obstacles and removes the fears of his devotees.”
Sakat Chaugh 2026 will take place in accordance with the correct date and time designated by the Panchang and Timing of Moonrise. By following the proper date/muhurata along with the fast rules and rituals outlined in Sanatangyan and ancient texts (shashtra), worshippers of Ganesha will receive His blessings for the removal of obstacles, protection of their children and peace within themselves.
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