Hindu Calendar, Key Festivals and Dates in September 2024

1. Ganesh Chaturthi (September 7, 2024)

Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, marking the birth of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Devotees bring home beautifully crafted idols of Lord Ganesha and offer prayers and sweets, especially modaks, which are believed to be his favorite. The festival lasts for 10 days, culminating in Ganesh Visarjan, where the idols are immersed in water bodies, symbolizing Ganesha’s journey back to Mount Kailash.

2. Radha Ashtami (September 9, 2024)

Radha Ashtami celebrates the birth of Radha Rani, the beloved consort of Lord Krishna. This day is particularly significant in the regions of Vrindavan and Mathura, where devotees engage in singing bhajans, reading scriptures, and performing elaborate rituals to honor Radha Rani.

3. Pitru Paksha (September 10 – 25, 2024)

Pitru Paksha, or Shraddha, is a 16-day period dedicated to the remembrance of ancestors. During this time, Hindus perform various rituals such as Tarpan, Pind Daan, and other offerings to ensure peace and salvation for the departed souls. It is believed that the souls of ancestors visit the earth during Pitru Paksha, and these rituals help them attain moksha, or liberation.

4. Vishwakarma Puja (September 17, 2024)

Vishwakarma Puja is celebrated in honor of Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect who designed the universe and all its wonders. On this day, craftsmen, engineers, and industrial workers worship their tools and machinery, seeking blessings for success and safety in their work.

5. Mahalaya Amavasya (September 25, 2024)

Mahalaya Amavasya marks the end of Pitru Paksha and is considered the most auspicious day to perform Shraddha rituals. It is also the day that heralds the arrival of Devi Paksha, leading to the commencement of Navratri. On this day, devotees offer special prayers to their ancestors, and it is believed that the Goddess Durga begins her journey from her heavenly abode to the earth.

Other Important Dates

  • Ekadashi Vrat: The Ekadashi fasts in September 2024 include Aja Ekadashi on September 11 and Padmini Ekadashi on September 26. These days are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and devotees observe fasting to cleanse their sins and attain spiritual upliftment.
  • Sankashti Chaturthi: Observed on September 21, Sankashti Chaturthi is a day dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Devotees fast and pray for the removal of obstacles in their lives.