Ganesh Chaturthi 2026: Dates, Puja Muhurats, and Traditions

Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 14, marking the start of the ten-day Ganesh Utsav festival. The Chaturthi तिथि (date) begins at approximately 7:06 AM on September 14 and concludes at 7:44 AM on September 15.

Devotees can perform Ganpati Sthapana (installation) during auspicious muhurats. In Delhi, the recommended time is between 11:02 AM and 1:31 PM, while Mumbai's window is 11:20 AM to 1:48 PM. Astrologer Chandrakant Saraswat notes that since Lord Ganesha was born in the afternoon, performing rituals during the afternoon is considered highly beneficial. It is advised to avoid rituals during Rahu Kaal, which occurs between 7:57 AM and 9:29 AM.

The festival concludes on September 25 with Anant Chaturdashi, when idols are immersed (Visarjan). Traditions vary regarding the duration of the deity's stay, with families choosing to keep the idol for 1.5, 3, 5, 7, or 10 days. Rituals typically involve eco-friendly clay idols, offerings of modaks, durva grass, and red flowers, alongside traditional prayers and aarti.