Weekly Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Santoshi Mata Vrat
Santoshi Mata Vrat is observed every Friday for 16 consecutive Fridays (Solah Shukravar) to seek blessings from Santoshi Mata — the goddess of satisfaction and contentment. She is believed to be the daughter of Lord Ganesha. The fast became extremely popular following the 1975 Bollywood film "Jai Santoshi Maa." Sour foods are strictly prohibited on this day.
Last updated: 19 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Fulfills specific desires, removes financial difficulties, ensures family happiness, grants satisfaction and contentment, and bestows material comforts.
Procedure
Observe fast every Friday for 16 Fridays. Worship Santoshi Mata with sweets (chana and jaggery). Read or listen to Santoshi Mata Vrat Katha. Do not allow sour food in the house on this day. On the 16th Friday, perform Udyapan (completion ceremony).
When to Observe
Every Friday for 16 consecutive Fridays (Solah Shukravar vrat).
Fasting Rules
Avoid all sour foods (tamarind, lemon, curd, tomato). Eat only one meal. No non-vegetarian food.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast after evening puja and katha. Eat chana-jaggery prasad first.
FAQ
Q.What is Santoshi Mata Vrat?
Santoshi Mata Vrat is observed every Friday for 16 consecutive Fridays (Solah Shukravar) to seek blessings from Santoshi Mata — the goddess of satisfaction and contentment. She is believed to be the daughter of Lord Ganesha. The fast became extremely...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Santoshi Mata Vrat?
Avoid all sour foods (tamarind, lemon, curd, tomato). Eat only one meal. No non-vegetarian food.
Q.When should Santoshi Mata Vrat be observed?
Every Friday for 16 consecutive Fridays (Solah Shukravar vrat).
Q.What are the benefits of Santoshi Mata Vrat?
Fulfills specific desires, removes financial difficulties, ensures family happiness, grants satisfaction and contentment, and bestows material comforts.