Ganesh Chaturthi vs. Ganesh Jayanti: Unraveling the Key Differences and Rituals

• Ganesh Chaturthi (Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi) marks Lord Ganesha's descent to Earth for 10 days, a celebration of his arrival.
• Ganesh Jayanti (Magha Shukla Chaturthi) is believed to be Lord Ganesha's birth anniversary, also known as 'Ganesh Janmotsav' or 'Tilakund Chaturthi'.
• The name 'Tilakund Chaturthi' comes from offering sesame seeds ('Til') and white Kunda flowers to Ganesha during the cold Magha month.
• In 2026, Ganesh Jayanti will be celebrated on January 22, with an auspicious worship time from 11:29 AM to 1:37 PM.
• Worship rituals include bathing with sesame, wearing yellow/red clothes, avoiding moon sighting, offering durva grass, hibiscus, and sesame modaks.

Why It Matters: Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates Ganesha's arrival, while Ganesh Jayanti marks his birth, both with distinct rituals.