Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: The Reason Behind Avoiding Moon Sightings and What to do if You See

Ganesh Chaturthi is just around the corner, and devotees of Lord Ganesha have already started their preparations. This year, the 10-day-long festival will begin on September 7 and continue until September 17. This vibrant festival, celebrated with great fervour, marks the birth of Lord Ganesha and is a time of joyous devotion and cultural traditions.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Start And End Date

• Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Start Date: September 7 (Saturday)
• Puja Tithi Start: September 6 (Friday) at 3:01 PM
• Puja Tithi End: September 7 at 5:37 PM
• Puja Muhurat: September 7 at 11:07 AM to 01:33 PM*
• Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: End Date/Visarjan: September 17 (Tuesday)

Why We Should Not See The Moon On Ganesh Chaturthi And What To Do If We Accidentally See It

One important ritual that many observe is the age-old belief of avoiding the sighting of the Moon on this day — here’s why.

It is believed that sighting the Moon on Ganesh Chaturthi is prohibited to avoid Mithya Dosham or Mithya Kalank, which refers to a false accusation of theft. This belief is rooted in a popular legend.

According to Hindu mythology, one night, Lord Ganesh went for a ride on his mooshak (mouse) but tripped due to his weight. The Moon, witnessing this, began to laugh, which angered Lord Ganesh.

In his fury, Ganesh cursed the Moon, declaring that anyone who sees the Moon on the night of Shukla Chaturthi during the month of Bhadrapada would be falsely accused and dishonoured in society.

According to Drik Panchang, Lord Krishna was once falsely accused of stealing a precious jewel named Syamantaka after he accidentally sighted the Moon on Ganesh Chaturthi. Sage Narada informed Krishna about the Mithya Dosham, explaining the curse’s origin.

To rid himself of this curse, Lord Krishna observed a fast on Ganesh Chaturthi, as advised by the sage. The reason for avoiding Moon sightings on Chaturthi is now clear; if you accidentally see the Moon, you can follow Lord Krishna’s example and observe a fast on Ganesh Chaturthi to be absolved.

It is also advised to chant the following mantra:

Simhah Prasenamavadhitsimho Jambavata Hatah।

Sukumaraka Marodistava Hyesha Syamantakah॥

When To Avoid Moon Sighting?

Based on the timing and duration of Ganesh Chaturthi, it is advised to avoid Moon sightings for two consecutive days.

According to Drik Panchang, the Moon should be avoided when the tithi is prevailing and also if it ends before the moonset.

This year, the tithi begins at 3:01 PM on Friday, September 6, and ends at 5:37 PM the following day i.e. September 7.

Therefore, it’s important to be cautious about Moon sightings during this period to avoid the effects of Mithya Dosham.