गणेश जयंती · ગણેશ જયંતી
2026
22 January 2026
Thursday · Shukla Chaturthi
Birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha in Magha month (Maghi Chaturthi). Celebrated with Modak offerings and Ganesha puja. Distinct from Ganesh Chaturthi in Bhadrapada.
In this tradition, Magha Shukla Chaturthi is Ganesha's birth day, while Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi marks his appearance or installation. Both are observed and the distinction is a real one in Maharashtra.
Fasting, worship with durva grass and red flowers, and a Ganesha idol installed for one and a half days in some households. Sesame is central, hence Tilkund Chaturthi.
Til laddoo and tilkut, sesame-and-jaggery preparations suited to the cold.
Primarily Maharashtra and Goa. Barely observed in North India, where "Ganesh Chaturthi" always means the Bhadrapada one.
