Monthly observance on the 4th day of Shukla Paksha dedicated to Lord Ganesha with prayers and offerings.

Vinayaka Chaturthi is the Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of each lunar month, sacred to Lord Ganesha as Vinayaka — the remover of obstacles and the deity invoked before every undertaking. Where Sankashti Chaturthi in the dark fortnight is observed at moonrise, Vinayaka Chaturthi is a midday observance: the puja is offered during Madhyahna Kaal, the period around noon, because Ganesha was born at that hour. Worship on this day is undertaken to clear obstacles before beginning a new venture, a course of study, a house move or a business decision. Devotees are traditionally warned not to look at the moon on this night, following the legend in which Chandra mocked Ganesha and was cursed, bringing false accusation upon anyone who gazes at him.

Fasting is optional on this observance. Most take a satvik meal after the noon puja. Those keeping the vrat fast until the midday worship is complete.