Date: Friday, 23 January 2026
Tithi: Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of Magha Month
Significance: Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of good fortune and wisdom.
🌸 About Vinayaka Chaturthi (Ganesh Chauth) 2026
Vinayaka Chaturthi, also known as Ganesh Chauth or Varad Chaturthi, is a sacred day that occurs every lunar month on the fourth day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha Chaturthi). The January 2026 Vinayaka Chaturthi holds special spiritual significance, as devotees worship Lord Ganesha for wisdom, prosperity, and protection from negative influences.
It is believed that sincere prayers on this day remove Vighna (obstacles) from one’s path and bring success in new ventures, education, and business.
🕉️ Rituals and Puja Vidhi
- Early Morning Purification: Devotees take a holy bath and wear clean clothes.
- Ganesha Idol Worship: A clay or metal idol of Lord Ganesha is placed on a clean altar, decorated with flowers, durva grass, and modaks (sweet dumplings).
- Chanting and Prayers: Recitation of Ganapati Atharvashirsha, Ganesh Stotra, and mantras like “Om Gan Ganapataye Namah” are performed with devotion.
- Fasting (Upvas): Many devotees observe a full or partial fast till moonrise.
- Moonrise Darshan: Offering arghya to the moon marks the completion of the vrat.
🌕 Spiritual Importance
According to Hindu tradition, Lord Ganesha is the first deity worshipped before any auspicious ceremony. Observing this vrat on Vinayaka Chaturthi brings:
- Freedom from life’s difficulties and obstacles.
- Wisdom, clarity, and intellectual growth.
- Protection against misfortune and evil energies.
It is also believed that worshipping Lord Ganesha on this day fulfills wishes (Varad means “boon-giving”).
🗓️ Puja Timings (Indicative)
- Chaturthi Tithi Begins: 22 January 2026 – 05:58 PM
- Chaturthi Tithi Ends: 23 January 2026 – 08:31 PM
(Timings vary by location; please refer to your local Panchang for accurate muhurat.)
🪔 Popular Temples for Vinayaka Chaturthi
- Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai
- Dagadusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple, Pune
- Rockfort Ucchi Pillayar Temple, Tiruchirapalli
- Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, Andhra Pradesh
🌼 Benefits of Observing Vinayaka Chaturthi
- Removes financial and career obstacles.
- Brings peace, health, and prosperity.
- Enhances focus and intelligence.
- Strengthens family harmony and success in ventures.
Vinayaka Chaturthi 2026 will be celebrated on 23 January (Friday). Know the Ganesh Chauth date, puja timings, fasting rituals, and significance of worshipping Lord Ganesha for success and wisdom.
❓ FAQ – Vinayaka Chaturthi 2026
Q1. When is Vinayaka Chaturthi in January 2026?
A1. Vinayaka Chaturthi falls on Friday, 23 January 2026.
Q2. What should be offered to Lord Ganesha on this day?
A2. Offer modak, durva grass, jaggery, coconut, and flowers, along with prayers and mantras.
Q3. What is the spiritual benefit of observing Ganesh Chauth?
A3. It removes obstacles, grants prosperity, and enhances wisdom and intellect.
Q4. Can anyone observe Vinayaka Chaturthi Vrat?
A4. Yes, both men and women can observe this vrat with devotion, regardless of age.
Panchang Official