Lord Ganesha is the first among all deities to be worshipped. His name is invoked before the sacred wedding fire is lit, before a new shop opens, or before the first entry is made in an account book. He is *Vighnaharta*, the remover of obstacles. During the ten days of the month of Bhadrapada, He not only grants our prayers but also resides on Earth.

This year, the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi falls on Monday, September 14, 2026. It is a golden opportunity for devotion for millions of families across the country, including in Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Telangana, and Gujarat. Let us explore complete details regarding Ganesh Chaturthi 2026, including the exact date, the auspicious time (*Muhurat*) for idol installation, the steps of the worship ritual, the required materials, and the immersion schedule.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026: Date and Installation *Muhurat*
According to the Hindu calendar, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the *Chaturthi Tithi* (fourth day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Bhadrapada. While most Hindu fasts and rituals are observed at sunrise, the installation of the Ganesha idol takes place in the afternoon.

This is because it is believed that Lord Ganesha was born in the afternoon. Installing the idol during this time is considered highly auspicious. Ganesh Chaturthi – Monday, 14 September 2026

Start of Chaturthi Tithi – 7:06 AM

End of Chaturthi Tithi – 7:44 AM, 15 September 2026

Installation Muhurat (New Delhi) – 11:02 AM to 1:31 PM

Installation Muhurat (Mumbai) – 11:20 AM to 1:48 PM

Installation Muhurat (Pune) – 11:16 AM to 1:44 PM

Installation Muhurat (Kolkata) – 10:18 AM to 12:46 PM

Main Visarjan (Immersion) Date – 25 September 2026, Friday

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 Date and Time (1)

Ganesh Installation and Puja Rituals
After bathing early in the morning, wear new or clean clothes. Thoroughly clean the place of worship and set up a wooden platform (chowki) facing North or East. Spread a red or yellow cloth over the platform. Draw a Swastika symbol and place *Akshat* (unbroken rice grains) in the center for the idol.

Next, take water, *Akshat*, and a flower in your right hand and state your *Sankalp* (solemn vow/intention). Finally, release the water.

Install the idol upon the *Akshat* during the auspicious time (*Muhurat*) in the afternoon. Sprinkle *Ganga jal* (holy water from the Ganges) over the idol and chant the mantra "Om Gam Ganapataye Namah." Next, place a copper *kalash* (pot) filled with water, a coin, a betel nut, mango leaves, and a coconut beside the idol.

Apply a *tilak* of sandalwood paste and *roli* (vermilion). It is considered auspicious to offer *akshat* (unbroken rice grains), *mauli* thread, flowers, *Durva* grass (specifically with 21 blades), and—if possible—a red hibiscus flower. Afterward, light a *ghee* lamp and incense.

Then, offer *bhog* (sacred food) consisting of *panchmeva* (a mix of five dry fruits), rock sugar (*mishri*), fruits, and 21 *modaks* or *laddus*. Read the stories of Ganesh Chaturthi and the *Syamantaka Mani*. Conclude the ritual by performing the *Aarti* of Lord Ganesha.

Perform the *Aarti* twice daily—in the morning and evening—for as long as the Lord resides in your home. He is an honored guest and should be treated as such.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026: List of Materials
Ganesha idol
*Ganga jal* (holy water)
Copper *kalash* (pot)
*Roli*, *kumkum*, and sandalwood paste
*Akshat* (unbroken rice grains)
*Mauli* thread
Desi *ghee* and *Bhimseni* camphor
Betel nut and turmeric root
*Panchmeva* and rock sugar (*mishri*)
*Aarti* thali (plate)

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