Why is sesame (til) important in this vrat?

Magh month is considered ideal for sesame offerings as per Dharmashastra. Tilkut (sesame-jaggery sweet) is the primary prasad for Sakat Chauth, and offering til is believed to destroy sins and grant Ganesha's blessings.

When exactly is the fast broken?

The fast is broken only after sighting the moon on Chaturthi night. Water is offered to the moon, then Ganesha puja is completed and prasad is taken.

AnantaMargDigital Sanctuary

Annual

Sakat Chauth Vrat

A fast on Magh Krishna Chaturthi by mothers for removing obstacles from their children's lives