Question 1

What is the difference between Sankashti Chaturthi and Vinayaka Chaturthi?

Accepted Answer

Sankashti Chaturthi falls in Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) and concludes with moonrise puja at night to remove severe troubles. Vinayaka Chaturthi falls in Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) and is worshipped at midday to invite wisdom, prosperity, and auspicious beginnings.

Question 2

Is moon sighting prohibited on Vinayaka Chaturthi?

Accepted Answer

Only on Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi (Ganesh Chaturthi day) is moon sighting strictly forbidden to avoid Mithya Kalank (false accusations). On monthly Vinayaka Chaturthis, there is no such universal prohibition, though midday remains the primary worship hour.