बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी OR संकष्टी चतुर्थी, which is considered the auspicious day to fast for Ganesha and worship the deity. The day holds a special significance in Hindu mythology and is observed on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon).
Bhalchandra refers to Lord Ganesha’s form, where he is adorned with a beautiful crescent moon on his forehead. The moon symbolizes peace, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles in one’s life.
Let’s deep dive into the significance of this Chaturthi and why Lord Ganesha is worshipped on this particular day.
बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी: It’s Meaning & Importance
बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी is the monthly festival that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is observed on the fourth day of the Krishna paksha as described before.
Lord Ganesha is called विघ्नहर्ता and by praying or fasting for him on this day, one can get rid of obstacles in their paths and attain the life of prosperity.
Let’s know the story behind Bhalchandra Sankashti Chaturthi:
The Curse of Chandra:
It once happened that Lord Ganesha, after having a hearty meal, mounted his vehicle, the mouse, and began his journey. Suddenly the mouse stumbled upon a snake, causing Ganesha to lose his balance and fall. Due to this, the stomach of Lord Ganesha burst open, and all the food he had eaten spilled out.
Watching this, Chandra Dev, the crescent moon, couldn’t control his laughter and started mocking Lord Ganesha, which deeply hurt the deity. So, enraged by Chandra Dev’s mockery, Lord Ganesha cursed him, declaring that the moon’s beauty and radiance would fade forever and disappear eventually.
Realizing the mistake, Chandra Dev pleaded for forgiveness, due to which Lord Ganesha modified the curse. So, he said that instead of vanishing forever, the moon would wax and wane every month, which means disappearing during the Krishna Paksha and reappearing during the Shukla Paksha.
To acknowledge this event, Lord Ganesha placed a crescent moon on his forehead and this form of Ganesha since then was called Bhalchandra, which means Lord Ganesha wearing a crescent moon on his head.
Mohini Avatar & Lord Ganesha:
Another story is also associated with this sacred day. It’s when Lord Vishnu came as in the Mohini’s avatar. He did this to enchant different devas and asuras. Lord Ganesha was also there and was mesmerized by watching the beauty of Mohini, which distracted him.
So, to retrieve his focus and concentration, Lord Ganesha kept the crescent moon on his forehead. This helped him regain his composure and to feel a sense of detachment. So the moon symbolizes calmness and wisdom when your energy gets distracted by any illusive thing.
Why is Bhalchandra Sankashti Chaturthi celebrated?
As we have got to know the story behind this puja or vrat, here we will also get to know other reasons for observing बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी:
The Bond Between Lord Ganesha & Moon
This event reminds us of the deep connection formulated between Lord Ganesha and the moon. The story of the moon and Ganesha teaches us the value of humility and the power of seeking forgiveness. It teaches us to let go of pride and embrace compassion in life.
Enlightenment & Wisdom
It is also celebrated to understand how one must act and respect others. The event recalls everything about Lord Ganesha’s wisdom, knowledge, kindness, and also enlightenment.
Spirituality
Observing बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी a person purify one’s soul and imbibe positive thoughts. The vrat brings devotees closer to the divine energy.
Celebrating Bhalchandra Sankashti Chaturthi
This special day is celebrated by performing various rituals, which are as follows:
Fasting (व्रत): The devotees of Lord Ganesha observe strict Vrat on this day that starts from sunrise and is broken with the moonrise. Devotees open their fast only after sighting the moon.
Ganesha Puja: Ganesha Puja is done by specially visiting the temples nearby or even at the home altar. People also keep Lord Ganesha Betel Nut Idol at their home sacred place for performing the puja rituals.
Then, they chant Ganesha mantras such as ॐ गण गणपतये नमः Naam Japa, which is also done to invoke the blessings of the almighty.
Moon Sighting (चन्द्र दर्शन): The sighting of the moon is the main part of the ritual, which has to be done in the evening when the moon rises. Only after sighting the moon will the fast be considered complete.
Offerings After Worship: The Ganesha bhakts prepare modaks, laddoos, and durva grass to make their beloved deity happy. These are the favorite foods of Lord Ganesha.
To Conclude
So, this was all about बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी, why it is so special, and why Ganesha Ji is worshipped on this day. The stories behind this day tell us a lot about the importance of humility, self-control, and the power of devotion.
So, this बालचन्द्र संकष्टी चतुर्थी, worship Lord Ganesha with pure heart and intentions to get blessed with the life filled with peace and prosperity.
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