संकष्टी चतुर्थी

Once, the Devas were facing immense trouble from demons and went to Lord Shiva for help. Shiva looked at His two sons, Kartikeya and Ganesha, and asked who could resolve the Devas' problems. Both claimed they could do it. To test them, Shiva said: "Whoever circles the entire Earth and returns first will get the opportunity to help the Devas." Kartikeya immediately mounted his peacock and flew around the world. Ganesha, possessing supreme wisdom, folded His hands, walked around His parents (Shiva and Parvati) three times, and stood still. When Shiva asked why He didn't circle the earth, Ganesha replied: "For a child, parents represent the entire universe." Shiva, pleased by His intelligence, declared Ganesha the winner and named Him "Vighnaharta" (remover of obstacles). Keeping a fast on this day and worshipping Ganesha is believed to grant the same wisdom, clear all obstacles, and bring success to any difficult endeavor.