Today, Vikat Sankashti Chaturthi is being observed along with the Sunday fast and Sun worship, with the moonrise time being the most important highlight. According to the Hindu calendar, the fourth lunar day begins at 11:59 AM, and since the Moon rises on the same night, the fast is observed today. Devotees worship Lord Ganesha during the day and wait for the Moon to rise at night. The fast is completed only after offering water to the Moon, making the timing crucial.
Moon Rise Time:
The moonrise holds special spiritual significance on Sankashti Chaturthi, as it marks the final and most important ritual of the fast. Devotees break their day-long fast only after sighting the Moon and offering water along with prayers. It is believed that this ritual pleases Lord Ganesha and helps remove obstacles, difficulties, and negative influences from life. Since the Moon rises late today at 9:58 PM, devotees often wait patiently throughout the evening, highlighting the discipline and devotion associated with this observance.
As per the daily calendar for April 5, 2026, the third lunar day lasts until 11:59 AM, followed by the fourth lunar day. The Vishakha constellation remains until 12:08 AM (April 6), after which Anuradha begins. The Moon stays in Libra until 5:28 PM and then moves into Scorpio. Sunrise is at 6:07 AM and sunset at 6:41 PM, while moonset is at 7:33 AM. The inauspicious Bhadra period lasts from 6:07 AM to 11:59 AM. Key auspicious timings include Abhijit Muhurat (11:59 AM–12:49 PM) and Amrit Kaal (2:24 PM–4:10 PM).
Observing this fast and performing prayers on Sankashti Chaturthi is believed to remove obstacles and bring positivity and success. Those observing the Sunday fast should worship the Sun in the morning and offer water. Salt is avoided, and only one sweet meal is consumed. Chanting sacred mantras dedicated to the Sun, including the Gayatri Mantra, is considered beneficial for wealth, health, stronger family relationships, and career growth. Donating red items such as sandalwood, clothes, saffron, and copper is also considered auspicious.