Tithi: Jyeshtha Month – Shukla Paksha Chaturthi
Introduction
Varada Chaturthi is one of the most sacred days dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the divine giver of blessings. The word Varada means “the granter of boons,” making this Chaturthi especially powerful for devotees praying for success, prosperity, wisdom, and fulfillment of wishes.
In 2026, Varada Chaturthi will be observed on Wednesday, May 20, during the auspicious Jyeshtha month. Devotees worship Lord Ganesha through fasting, mantra chanting, and traditional puja rituals performed during the Madhyahna (midday) period.
This complete guide explains the date, timings, significance, puja vidhi, mantras, temples, fasting rules, and spiritual importance of Varada Chaturthi 2026.
Table of Contents
- What is Varada Chaturthi?
- Varada Chaturthi 2026: Date and Timings
- Significance in Mudgala Purana and Ganesha Purana
- Connection with Bhavishya Purana and Vishnu
- Varada Chaturthi Puja Vidhi and Rituals
- Varada Chaturthi Puja Thali Setup
- 4 Famous Temples for Varada Chaturthi Darshan
- Ganesh Chalisa, Ganesh Aarti, and Mantras
- Understanding Adhik Maas and Purushottam Month
- FAQs about Varada Chaturthi
What is Varada Chaturthi?
Varada Chaturthi falls on the fourth day (Chaturthi Tithi) of the waxing moon phase every month and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha in his benevolent Varada Ganapati form.
On this day, devotees believe Lord Ganesha:
- Removes karmic obstacles
- Grants wisdom and clarity
- Blesses new beginnings
- Fulfills righteous desires
Among all monthly Ganesha observances, Varada Chaturthi is considered highly auspicious for wish fulfilment.
The Meaning of 'Varada'
The Sanskrit word 'Varada' (वरद) is derived from 'Vara' (boon) and 'Da' (giver), literally meaning 'the one who grants boons.' When devotees worship Ganesha ji on this day with sincere devotion, Lord Ganesha blesses them with wisdom, patience, prosperity, and the fulfillment of their righteous desires.
Who is Lord Ganesha?
Lord Ganesha, also known as Shree Ganesha, Ganpati, or Vinayaka, is one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism. He is the elephant-headed god of beginnings, wisdom, and the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta). Ganesha is traditionally worshipped before starting any new venture, ritual, or important work. He is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the elder brother to Lord Kartikeya (though some regional traditions vary on who is elder—Ganesha or Kartikeya).
Varada Chaturthi 2026: Date and Timings
Varada Chaturthi in 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, during the Jyeshtha month (also written as Jyestha month) of the Hindu calendar.
Varada Chaturthi 2026 Details:
|
Detail |
Information |
|
Date |
Tuesday, May 20, 2026 |
|
Tithi |
Jyeshtha, Shukla Paksha Chaturthi |
|
Chaturthi Madhyahna Muhurat |
10:56 AM to 11:06 AM |
|
On previous day time to avoid Moon sighting |
02:18 PM to 10:13 PM, May 19 |
|
Time to avoid Moon sighting |
08:43 AM to 11:08 PM |
|
Chaturthi Begins |
02:18 PM, May 19, 2026 |
|
Chaturthi Ends |
11:06 AM, May 20, 2026 |
|
Puja Muhurat |
12:18 PM to 01:26 PM (Duration: 01 Hour 08 Minutes) |
(Note*: The Timings may change according to the Locations.)
The most auspicious time for Varada Chaturthi puja is during the Madhyahna Muhurat (midday period) when the Chaturthi Tithi is active. Devotees should perform Ganesh puja, recite Ganesh Chalisa, sing Ganesh Aarti, and chant Ganesha mantras during this time for maximum blessings.
Significance in Mudgala Purana and Ganesha Purana
Ancient scriptures such as the Mudgala Purana and Ganesha Purana emphasize that Chaturthi Tithi belongs to Lord Ganesha.
The day represents:
- Victory over internal obstacles
- Removal of negative karma
- Growth in wisdom and discipline
- Divine protection for new ventures
Varada Ganapati symbolizes compassion, generosity, and divine grace.
What is Mudgala Purana?
The Mudgala Purana (Mudgal Puran) is a Sanskrit text and one of the Upapuranas (minor Puranas) dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It was composed by the sage Mudgala and contains detailed descriptions of eight incarnations (avatars) of Ganesha, including Varada Ganapati—the form specifically associated with Varada Chaturthi.
Key teachings of Mudgala Purana:
- Describes the eight avatars of Ganesha (Vakratunda, Ekadanta, Mahodara, Gajanana, Lambodara, Vikata, Vighnaraja, and Dhumravarna)
- Explains how Ganesha defeats various demons representing obstacles in spiritual life
- Provides detailed rituals and mantras for worshipping different forms of Ganesha
- Emphasizes the significance of Chaturthi Tithi as the most sacred day for Ganesha worship
What is Ganesha Purana?
The Ganesha Purana is another important scripture dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This text elaborates on the mythology, iconography, and worship practices related to Ganesha. It describes how Ganesha rules over the Ganas (celestial beings) and serves as the divine remover of obstacles for all devotees.
Main stories and teachings within the Ganesha Purana:
- The birth story of Lord Ganesha and how he received his elephant head
- Tales of how Ganesha became the first deity to be worshipped (Pratham Pujya)
- Descriptions of Ganesha's companions: Riddhi (prosperity) and Siddhi (spiritual power)
- The significance of Ganesha's vehicle, the mouse (Mushaka), representing humility
- Various forms of Ganesha worship for different life goals and desires
How Many Forms of Ganesha Are There?
According to the Mudgala Purana, Lord Ganesha has eight primary forms or avatars. Additionally, there are 32 classical forms of Ganesha described in various scriptures, each with unique iconographic features, mudras (hand gestures), and specific purposes. Varada Ganapati, the boon-giving form, is one of these 32 forms, depicted with his trunk turned to the left, holding a pot of jewels, and bestowing blessings upon devotees.
Connection with Bhavishya Purana and Lord Vishnu
While Varada Chaturthi is primarily dedicated to Lord Ganesha, its significance is also mentioned in the broader context of Hindu cosmology and Puranic literature, including references in the Bhavishya Purana and connections to Lord Vishnu.
What is Bhavishya Purana?
The Bhavishya Purana (भविष्य पुराण) is one of the eighteen Mahapuranas in Hindu literature. The term 'Bhavishya' means 'future,' and this Purana is known for its prophecies and detailed descriptions of various religious observances, festivals, and vratam (fasting rituals) across different yugas (cosmic ages). The Bhavishya Purana was written by sage Vyasa, though the exact dating is debated among scholars.
The Bhavishya Purana consists of four parts (parvas) and covers a vast range of topics:
- Creation of the universe and cosmology
- Descriptions of various Hindu festivals and their significance
- Dharma (righteous living) and rules for different varnas (social classes)
- Detailed guidelines on fasting, puja rituals, and religious observances
- Prophecies about future events and dynasties
Is Bhavishya Purana true? The Bhavishya Purana is considered a sacred Hindu scripture, and its prophecies and teachings are revered by believers. However, like many ancient texts, it has undergone interpolations over centuries. Scholars debate the authenticity of certain sections, but its core teachings on dharma, festivals, and rituals remain widely respected.
When was Bhavishya Purana written? The original composition is attributed to Sage Vyasa (the same author of the Mahabharata), placing it in ancient times, possibly between 3000-500 BCE. However, many sections were likely added or modified in later periods.
How Many Puranas Are There?
There are 18 Mahapuranas (major Puranas) and 18 Upapuranas (minor Puranas) in Hindu tradition, totaling 36 Puranas. The Bhavishya Purana is one of the 18 Mahapuranas, while the Mudgala Purana and Ganesha Purana are classified as Upapuranas.
The 18 Mahapuranas (18 Puran) are:
- Brahma Purana
- Padma Purana
- Vishnu Purana
- Shiva Purana
- Bhagavata Purana
- Narada Purana
- Markandeya Purana
- Agni Purana
- Bhavishya Purana
- Brahma Vaivarta Purana
- Linga Purana
- Varaha Purana
- Skanda Purana
- Vamana Purana
- Kurma Purana
- Matsya Purana
- Garuda Purana
- Brahmanda Purana
Lord Vishnu and His Connection to Ganesha
Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti), is deeply revered across Hindu traditions. Vishnu Bhagwan is known for his ten avatars (Vishnu avatars or Vishnu avatar), which include Matsya, Kurma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Parashurama, Rama, Krishna, Buddha, and Kalki.
While Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu are distinct deities, several Puranic texts mention their divine connections:
- Vishnu is often invoked alongside Ganesha in major Hindu rituals
- The Vishnu Sahasranamam (1000 names of Vishnu) is sometimes recited during Ganesha festivals
- Devotees chant the Vishnu Chalisa alongside the Ganesh Chalisa for comprehensive blessings
- Both deities represent different aspects of divine grace—Vishnu as the sustainer and Ganesha as the remover of obstacles
Varada Chaturthi Puja Vidhi and Rituals
Performing Varada Chaturthi puja at home is a beautiful way to seek Lord Ganesha's blessings. Here is the step-by-step guide for the traditional Ganesh puja on Varada Chaturthi:
Preparation Before Puja
- Wake up early and take a purifying bath
- Clean the puja area thoroughly
- Prepare the Ganesha idol (clay idol is preferred using Ganesha with clay) or picture
- Gather all puja items (see Puja Thali section below)
- Wear clean, preferably traditional clothes
Varada Chaturthi Puja Steps
- Ganesh Sthapana (Installation): Place the Ganesha idol or image on a clean wooden platform (chowki) covered with red cloth. Face the idol towards the east or north.
- Pranapratishtha (Invocation): Invoke Lord Ganesha's divine presence in the idol with this mantra: 'Om Gan Ganapataye Namah'
- Panchamrit Abhishek: Bathe the idol with panchamrit (mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar)
- Offer Water: Sprinkle pure water on the idol while chanting mantras
- Apply Chandan and Kumkum: Apply sandalwood paste (chandan) and kumkum to Ganesha ji
- Offer Flowers: Offer red flowers (hibiscus is highly auspicious for Ganesha)
- Durva Grass Offering: Offer 21 blades of durva grass (a special grass sacred to Ganesha) with this mantra: 'Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah Durva Ankuritatejase'
- Light Diya and Incense: Light a ghee lamp (diya) and incense sticks (dhoop-deep)
- Offer Modak and Prasad: Offer 21 modaks (sweet dumplings - Ganesha's favorite), coconut, fruits, and other sweets
- Recite Ganesha Mantra: Chant the Ganesha mantra: 'Om Gan Ganapataye Namah' 108 times using a mala (rosary)
- Read Ganesh Chalisa: Recite the Ganesh Chalisa (40 verses praising Lord Ganesha)
- Perform Ganesh Aarti: Sing the traditional Ganesh Aarti: 'Sukhkarta Dukhharta' or 'Jai Ganesh Jai Ganesh Deva'
- Camphor Aarti: Light camphor and perform the final aarti
- Seek Blessings: Bow down and seek Lord Ganesha's blessings for wish fulfillment
- Distribute Prasad: Distribute the blessed prasad among family members and devotees
Important Mantra for Varada Chaturthi
While offering sindoor (vermilion) to Ganesha ji, chant this mantra:
सिन्दूरं शोभनं रक्तं सौभाग्यं सुखवर्धनम् । शुभदं कामदं चैव सिन्दूरं प्रतिगृह्यताम् ॥
(Translation: O Lord, please accept this auspicious red sindoor that brings good fortune, happiness, prosperity, and fulfills all desires.)
Varada Chaturthi Puja Thali Setup
A properly arranged puja thali is essential for performing Varada Chaturthi puja. Here are all the items you need to include in your puja thali:
Essential items include:
- Ganesha idol or image
- Red cloth and wooden chowki
- Panchamrit
- Flowers and durva grass
- Modak sweets
- Coconut and fruits
- Diya, incense, camphor
- Kumkum, haldi, akshat
- Bell and prayer beads
Additional Items (Optional but Recommended):
- Ganesha images or pictures for decoration
- Rangoli colors to create designs
- Garlands made of flowers
- Sacred thread (Kalava/Mouli)
- Small container for kumkum and chandan
- Spoon for offering items
Ganesh Chalisa, Ganesh Aarti, and Mantras
Ganesh Chalisa
The Ganesh Chalisa is a 40-verse devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Reciting it on Varada Chaturthi brings wisdom, removes obstacles, and grants blessings. The Chalisa should be recited after completing the puja rituals.
Benefits of Reciting Ganesh Chalisa:
- Removes all obstacles from life
- Grants wisdom and intelligence
- Brings success in new ventures
- Fulfills righteous desires
- Provides mental peace and clarity
Ganesh Aarti
The Ganesh Aarti is performed at the end of the puja ritual. The most popular aartis are:
1. Sukhkarta Dukhharta Aarti: "Sukhkarta Dukhharta Varta Vighnachi, Nurvi Purvi Prem Krupa Jayachi..."
2. Jai Ganesh Jai Ganesh Deva: "Jai Ganesh Jai Ganesh Jai Ganesh Deva, Mata Jaki Parvati Pita Mahadeva..."
Singing these aartis with devotion while waving the diya (lamp) in front of Lord Ganesha completes the worship ceremony.
Powerful Ganesha Mantras
1. Beej Mantra: "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah" (Chant 108 times for obstacle removal)
2. Maha Mantra: "Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah" (For general worship and blessings)
3. Siddhi Vinayak Mantra: "Om Shri Siddhivinayaka Namo Namah" (For success and fulfillment)
4. Shaktivinayak Mantra: "Om Hreeng Greeng Hreeng" (For spiritual power and protection)
5. Vakratunda Mantra: "Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha, Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Kaaryeshu Sarvada" (To begin any new work without obstacles)
Ganesha Images for Meditation
Meditating on Ganesha images during puja enhances concentration. Visualize Lord Ganesha in his Varada form—seated on a lotus, with his trunk turned left, one hand in Varada mudra (blessing gesture), holding a pot of jewels, and radiating golden light.
Understanding Adhik Maas and Purushottam Month
While planning for Varada Chaturthi and other Hindu festivals, it's important to understand the concept of Adhik Maas (also called Mal Maas or Purushottam Maas), as it affects the Hindu calendar.
What is Adhik Maas?
Adhik Maas (अधिक मास) literally means "extra month" in Sanskrit. It is an intercalary month added to the Hindu lunar calendar approximately every three years to synchronize the lunar calendar with the solar calendar. This additional month ensures that Hindu festivals remain aligned with their appropriate seasons.
Also Known As:
- Adhik Maas
- Mal Maas (though this term is sometimes considered inauspicious)
- Purushottam Maas (named after Lord Vishnu/Krishna as Purushottam)
- Purushottama Month
- Adhik Month
When is Adhik Maas 2026?
The next Adhik Maas in 2026 is scheduled to occur, and devotees should check the Hindu Panchang for exact dates. When an Adhik Maas occurs, certain auspicious ceremonies like weddings are typically avoided, but spiritual practices, charity, and devotion are highly encouraged.
Previous Adhik Maas dates:
- Adhik Maas 2025: (Check Hindu calendar)
- Adhik Maas 2024: (Check Hindu calendar)
When is the next Adhik Maas? The exact occurrence depends on astronomical calculations. The next Adhik Maas after 2026 will be in 2029 or 2030.
What to Do in Adhik Maas?
Although some consider Mal Maas (another name for Adhik Maas) inauspicious for new beginnings, it is actually considered highly auspicious for:
- Spiritual practices and meditation
- Reading sacred texts like Bhagavad Gita, Bhavishya Purana, Vishnu Purana
- Chanting Vishnu Sahasranamam and Vishnu Chalisa
- Performing charity and helping the needy
- Temple visits and darshan
- Fasting and devotional practices
- Worship of Lord Vishnu (Purushottama)
What is the Meaning of Adhik Maas?
The meaning of Adhik Maas is "additional month." It serves the astronomical purpose of keeping the lunar calendar (used for Hindu festivals) synchronized with the solar calendar (seasons). Without this adjustment, festivals would gradually shift through seasons.
Purushottam / Purushottama
The term "Purushottam" (पुरुषोत्तम) means "the Supreme Being" or "the best among men," a title for Lord Vishnu/Krishna. When the Adhik Maas was initially considered inauspicious and unwanted, Lord Vishnu accepted it and blessed it with his name, making it "Purushottam Maas"—a month especially dear to Lord Vishnu and highly auspicious for spiritual growth.
Note: "Purushottam Express" is a train service in India and has no connection to the religious concept of Purushottama or the Adhik Maas month.
Famous Temples for Varada Chaturthi Darshan
Visiting temples dedicated to Varada Vinayaka on this auspicious day brings immense blessings. Here are four famous temples where you can seek Lord Ganesha's darshan on Varada Chaturthi:
1. Shri Varadvinayak Temple, Mahad (Maharashtra)
Significance: This is one of the eight sacred Ashtavinayak temples in Maharashtra. The Varadvinayak idol is Swayambhu (self-manifested) and was discovered in a nearby lake in 1690 AD. The temple was built by Peshwa General Ramji Mahadev Biwalkar in 1725 AD.
Special Features:
- The only Ashtavinayak temple where devotees can personally touch and worship the idol
- A Nandadeep (oil lamp) has been burning continuously since 1892
- The idol faces east with trunk turned to the left
- Ganesha is worshipped here as Varada Vinayaka, the fulfiller of wishes
- Special celebrations during Magha Chaturthi and Varada Chaturthi
- A sacred pond (lake) adjacent to the temple where the idol was found
2. Shree Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai (Maharashtra)
Significance: One of India's most famous and wealthy Ganesha temples, established on November 19, 1801, by Laxman Vithu Patil and his wife Deubai Patil. The temple is believed to fulfill the wishes of all sincere devotees.
Special Features:
- Black stone idol of Siddhivinayak, 2.5 feet wide with trunk tilted to the right (rare feature)
- Four-armed (Chaturbhuj) Ganesha holding a lotus, small axe, prayer beads, and a bowl of modaks
- Flanked by Riddhi and Siddhi (goddesses of prosperity and spiritual power)
- Inner sanctum roof plated with gold
- Wooden doors carved with images of the Ashtavinayak
- Adjacent Hanuman temple in the complex
- Tuesdays are most auspicious for darshan (extremely crowded)
Connection to Varada Chaturthi: While primarily known as Siddhivinayak, this temple is deeply associated with wish fulfillment (Varada), making it an ideal destination for Varada Chaturthi worship.
3. Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple, Kanipakam (Andhra Pradesh)
Significance: Known as Sri Varasidhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple, this is one of South India's most revered Ganesha temples. The idol is Swayambhu (self-manifested) and is believed to continuously grow in size.
Special Features:
- The idol is seated in a well, and its base has never been found despite attempts
- Devotees believe the idol grows over time
- The name "Varasiddhi" means "granter of boons and perfection"
- Miraculous legend of three disabled brothers (mute, deaf, blind) who regained their faculties
4. Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple, Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
Significance: A unique Ganesha temple in Chennai known for its distinctive idol arrangement and beach-side location.
Special Features:
- Unique feature: A smaller Ganesha idol placed atop a larger one
- The smaller idol is the original deity that was initially worshipped
- Both Riddhi and Siddhi are present alongside Lord Ganesha
- Beach-side location adds to the spiritual ambiance
- Special musical programs organized during Ganesh Chaturthi
- Popular among devotees seeking Varada Ganesha's blessings
FAQs About Varada Chaturthi
Q1: When is Varada Chaturthi in 2026?
A: Varada Chaturthi 2026 falls on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in the Jyeshtha month during Shukla Paksha.
Q2: When is Ganesha Chaturthi 2025 and Ganesha Chaturthi 2026?
A: Ganesha Chaturthi 2025 (Ganesh Chaturthi 2025) falls on August 27, 2025. The main Ganesha Chaturthi in 2026 will be celebrated on September 14, 2026.
Q3: What is the significance of Varada Chaturthi?
A: Varada Chaturthi is significant because Lord Ganesha appears in his "Varada" form—the granter of boons. Worshipping Ganesha on this day with devotion helps fulfill righteous desires and removes obstacles from one's life.
Q4: How to perform Varada Chaturthi puja at home?
A: Follow these steps: Clean the puja area, install Ganesha idol on red cloth, perform abhishekam with panchamrit, offer flowers and durva grass, light diya and incense, offer 21 modaks, chant "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah" 108 times, recite Ganesh Chalisa, and perform Ganesh Aarti.
Q5: What is the difference between Ganesha and Ganpati?
A: There is no difference. Ganesha, Ganpati, Ganapati, and Vinayaka are all names for the same deity—the elephant-headed god who is the remover of obstacles.
Q6: Where is the tusk of Ganesha?
A: According to Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha broke off one of his tusks to use as a writing instrument when transcribing the Mahabharata as dictated by sage Vyasa. This is why Ganesha is typically depicted with one complete tusk and one broken tusk (Ekadanta).
Q7: Ganesha is the god of what?
A: Ganesha is the god of wisdom, knowledge, new beginnings, prosperity, and the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta). He is worshipped first before starting any new venture or ritual.
Q8: Who is elder - Ganesha or Kartikeya?
A: According to most Hindu scriptures, Ganesha is the elder son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. However, some regional traditions, particularly in South India, consider Kartikeya (also known as Murugan) as the elder brother.
Q9: What are the main teachings of the Mudgala Purana?
A: The Mudgala Purana teaches about the eight incarnations of Ganesha, methods to overcome obstacles through devotion, the importance of Chaturthi Tithi, and detailed rituals for worshipping different forms of Lord Ganesha. It emphasizes that sincere devotion to Ganesha removes all impediments in spiritual and material life.
Q10: What is the connection between Ganesha and Lakshmi?
A: Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are often worshipped together as they represent complementary blessings—Ganesha removes obstacles while Lakshmi grants prosperity. Together, they ensure success and wealth flow without hindrances. The worship of "Ganesha and Lakshmi" is especially popular during Diwali.
Q11: What is Purana?
A: A Purana is a genre of ancient Indian literature that contains stories, legends, genealogies, cosmology, and religious teachings. There are 18 Mahapuranas (major Puranas) and 18 Upapuranas (minor Puranas) in Hindu tradition.
Q12: Is it auspicious to make Ganesha with clay?
A: Yes, creating and worshipping Ganesha idols made from clay is highly auspicious and environmentally friendly. Clay idols represent the earth element and dissolve naturally when immersed in water, following the cycle of creation and dissolution taught in Hindu philosophy.
Conclusion
Varada Chaturthi 2026 is a sacred opportunity to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha in his compassionate Varada form. By observing the vrat, performing puja with devotion, chanting mantras, and practicing gratitude, devotees invite prosperity, wisdom, and peace into their lives.
May Lord Ganesha remove all obstacles and bless you with success, happiness, and spiritual growth.
Ganpati Bappa Morya!
