Vrata
Sankashti Chaturthi Vrata
Observed on the fourth lunar day of the dark fortnight of every lunar month, this vrata is dedicated to Ganesha. 'Sankashti' means 'relief from hardship' — the core spirit of this vrata is a prayer to the remover of obstacles, Ganesha, to clear away life's difficulties.
Rules
The custom is to keep a day-long fast and break it in the evening, after moonrise, through Ganesha puja and offering arghya (water oblation) to the moon.
Benefits
Devotees believe this vrata removes obstacles from life and brings success in new undertakings.