Ganesha Jayanti 2026: Date, Rituals & Significance of Tilkund Chaturthi
Date: January 22, 2026
(Thursday)
Tithi: Magha Shukla Paksha Chaturthi
Significance
Ganesha Jayanti marks the birth of Lord Ganesha,
celebrated primarily in Maharashtra and parts of Konkan. Unlike Ganesh
Chaturthi (Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi), which celebrates Ganesha’s arrival
to Earth, Ganesha Jayanti is considered his actual birth anniversary.
Also known as:
- Tilkund
Chaturthi (due to the use of sesame in
rituals)
- Varad
Chaturthi (meaning “boon-bestowing Chaturthi”)
Rituals and Observances
- Shodashopachara
Puja: Sixteen-step worship of Lord Ganesha with
traditional offerings.
- Homemade
Idol Worship: Devotees create a Ganesha idol
using turmeric (haldi) or sindoor (vermilion) powder.
- Visarjan:
The idol is immersed in water on the same day or after four days.
- Til-based
Offerings: Special dishes made from til
(sesame) like til laddoo, til poli, and tilgul
are prepared and consumed.
- Temple
Celebrations: Special abhishekam, archana,
and bhajans are held in Ganesha temples, especially in Maharashtra.
Regional Focus
- Maharashtra:
Major celebrations in Pune, Siddhatek, Morgaon, and other Ashtavinayak
temples.
- Konkan
& Goa: Observed with local customs and
sesame-based offerings.
- Andhra
Pradesh & Karnataka: Limited
observance, but growing awareness in Ganesha temples.
Difference from Ganesh Chaturthi
| Aspect | Ganesha Jayanti (Magha) | Ganesh Chaturthi (Bhadrapada) |
|---|---|---|
| Month | Magha (Jan–Feb) | Bhadrapada (Aug–Sep) |
| Focus | Birth of Ganesha | Arrival of Ganesha to Earth |
| Idol Type | Turmeric/Sindoor (homemade) | Clay idols (elaborate) |
| Duration | 1 or 4 days | 1 to 11 days |
| Regional Popularity | Maharashtra, Konkan | Pan-India |
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