Today, Friday, July 17, 2026, devotees across India are observing Vinayaka Chaturthi, a sacred Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the deity of wisdom, prosperity and new beginnings.

Vinayaka Chaturthi is observed every month on the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi (fourth day of the waxing moon). Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings for success, happiness and the removal of obstacles from their lives.

Vinayaka Chaturthi 2026: Tithi and Timings

• Chaturthi Tithi Begins: 6:28 AM, July 17, 2026

• Chaturthi Tithi Ends: 4:43 AM, July 18, 2026

• Sunrise: 5:55 AM

• Sunset: 7:11 PM

• Moonrise: 8:44 AM

• Moonset: 9:39 PM

The above timings are for Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (IST). Timings may vary slightly by location.

Significance of Vinayaka Chaturthi

According to Hindu tradition, every lunar month has two Chaturthi observances:

• Vinayaka Chaturthi – observed during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon).

• Sankashti Chaturthi – observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase).

Vinayaka Chaturthi is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Ganesha. It is believed that offering prayers on this day removes obstacles, brings prosperity, enhances wisdom and fulfills sincere wishes.

How to Perform Vinayaka Chaturthi Puja

Devotees generally follow these rituals:

• Take a holy bath early in the morning and wear clean clothes.

• Install an idol or image of Lord Ganesha at the place of worship.

• Offer durva grass, red flowers, vermilion (sindoor), modaks and laddoos.

• Chant "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah", recite the Ganesh Atharvashirsha or Ganesh Chalisa.

• Perform the aarti and pray for peace, prosperity and success.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026

The grand annual festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, Ganesh Chaturthi, will be observed on Monday, September 14, 2026.

Upcoming Vinayaka Chaturthi Dates in 2026

• July 17

• August 16

• September 14 (Ganesh Chaturthi)

• October 14

• November 13

• December 13