New Delhi:  As per the Hindu calendar, there are two Chaturthi dates in each lunar month. And, it is believed that Chaturthi days are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, also known as Vinayaka or Vignharta. The Chaturthi which falls in Shukla Paksha after Amavasya is called Vinayaka Chaturthi and the one which is marked in Krishna Paksha after Purnima is called Sankashti Chaturthi respectively. 

On January 16, Vinayaka Chaturthi Vrat will be observed. Although, Vinayaka Chaturthi vrat or fast is observed each month it is said that the Vinayaka Chaturthi which falls during the month of Bhadrapada is most auspicious. 

Also, Vinayaka Chaturthi falling during Bhadrapada month is called Ganesh Chaturthi - the birth of Lord Ganpati. 

The 10-day long Ganesh Chaturthi festival usually takes place in the month of September. It is celebrated pan India but holds greater significance in Maharashtra where it is widely revered. 

VINAYAKA CHATURTHI VRAT DATE AND TIMINGS:

January 16, 2021, Saturday
Vinayaka Chaturthi
11:28 to 13:34

Pausha, Shukla Chaturthi
Begins - 07:45, Jan 16
Ends - 08:08, Jan 17

(According to drikpanchang.com)

RITUALS OF VINAYAKA CHATURTHI:

On this day, devotees observe fast or vrat and begin their day early by taking bath, wearing new clothes and praying to Lord Ganesha for his blessings.

After taking Sankalp and sitting in Dhyana or meditation for some time, devotees can pray and offer prasad to the Lord. 

One can break the fast only after seeing the moon and performing puja and reciting Ganesh Mantra. 

Devotees believe that their wishes will be fulfilled and Vighnaharta will remove all the obstacles in their life as Lord Ganesha symbolises that. One can also prepare Lord Ganesha's favourite sweet - Modak - and offer him as prasad. It can also be distributed amongst others after offering it to the god.

The Vinayaka Chaturthi vrat is observed by Lord Ganesha believers. 

Vinayaka Chaturthi is also known as Varad Vinayaka Chaturthi which simply means urging the Lord to fulfil one's desire. Devotees who observe this vrat are believed to be blessed with patience and wisdom by the Lord. 

Ganpati puja is performed during the Muhurat time mentioned above in the afternoon or midday. The days and dates of vrat timing can differ from place-to-place depending upon sunrise and sunset time, according to drikpanchang.com. 

Here's wishing everyone a very happy Vinayaka Chaturthi!