Sakat Chauth 2026 moonrise time: City-wise timings and what to do if the moonrise is delayed or hidden by clouds

Moonrise time: Sakat Chauth, observed mainly by mothers, is a Hindu fast dedicated to the well-being of children. Rooted in tradition, the vrat is a heartfelt wish for long life, good health, and protection from obstacles. In 2026, Sakat Chauth falls on Tuesday, January 6, and devotees observe it with devotion, offering prayers to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

Sakat Chauth Puja Timings

According to the Hindu Panchang, Magh Krishna Paksha Chaturthi begins on 6 January at 8:01 am and ends on 7 January at 6:52 am. The fast is observed throughout the day and is completed only after moonrise, which occurs in the evening. Devotees prepare a clean space, place an idol or image of Lord Ganesha, and perform puja with offerings such as til-gud laddoos, modak, motichoor laddoos, seasonal fruits, sweet potatoes, durva grass, red flowers, and a diya.

Moonrise Time in Major Cities

City-wise moonrise timings for Sakat Chauth 2026 are approximately:

City	Moonrise Time (Approx.)
Delhi	08:54 PM
Mumbai	09:23 PM
Kolkata	08:15 PM
Chennai	08:59 PM
Bengaluru	09:10 PM
Hyderabad	09:02 PM
Jaipur	09:03 PM
Ahmedabad	09:20 PM
Pune	09:20 PM
Chandigarh	08:54 PM

What Is Sakat Chauth and Why It’s Observed

Also known as Tilkut Chauth, Sankata Chauth, Maghi Chauth, or Til Chaturthi, Sakat Chauth is celebrated to seek blessings for children’s health, emotional strength, and safety. Unlike other festivals, its significance lies in faith and devotion rather than grand celebrations. Mothers observe a strict fast, offering prayers and til-based sweets to Lord Ganesha.

How to Break the Fast After Moonrise

The fast is broken only after offering arghya to the moon. Devotees recite prayers and perform Sakat Chauth puja, after which they can consume til-gud sweets, fruits, and other offerings. Maintaining devotion and patience is considered the most important part of the vrat.

What to Do If the Moon Is Not Visible

If clouds or bad weather prevent sighting the moon at the expected time, devotees may offer arghya at the earliest possible visible time.

For those unable to see the moon in their city, modern options include:

• Viewing a live video of the moonrise from another city where the sky is clear.
• Using a photograph of the moon captured on the same night.
• Joining friends or family via video call during the puja to offer arghya collectively.

The key principle is devotion and intention, which is considered more important than physical visibility.

Sakat Chauth Puja Muhurat & Rituals to Follow

Evening puja is performed in a clean and sacred area. Key rituals include:

• Placing an idol or image of Lord Ganesha on a chowki
• Offering til-gud laddoos, modak, or motichoor laddoos
• Using seasonal fruits and roots, such as sweet potato
• Arranging durva grass, red flowers, and a diya
• Ensuring sesame seeds (til) are included as they symbolise warmth, nourishment, and resilience