What Happens If You See the Moon on Ganesh Chaturthi? Remedies for Chandra Dosh

According to Hindu scriptures, it is considered highly inauspicious to see the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi (Shukla Paksha Chaturthi of Bhadrapada month). On this day, Lord Ganesha had cursed the moon, and anyone who sees it is believed to suffer from Chandra Dosh. Such a person may also face false accusations, especially of theft.

Why We Should Not See the Moon on Ganesh Chaturthi

Once, Lord Ganesha was riding on his mouse when he encountered the moon. Proud of its beauty, the moon mocked Ganesha’s unique form and laughed at him. Angered, Ganesha cursed the moon, declaring that its charm and radiance would be destroyed.

This curse shook the entire universe. Realizing his mistake, Chandra Dev (the moon god) begged for forgiveness. Moved by his repentance, Lord Ganesha instructed him to observe the Ganesh Chaturthi fast with full devotion to lessen the curse. From that time, it is believed that the moon remains cursed on this particular Chaturthi, and people avoid looking at it.

Example from Shri Krishna’s Life

The harmful effect of seeing the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi is also seen in the life of Shri Krishna. On this day, Krishna accidentally looked at the moon and was later falsely accused of stealing the Syamantaka Mani, a precious gem belonging to Satrajit Yadav.

To clear his name, Krishna investigated and discovered that a lion had taken the gem, which later came into Jamvant’s possession. After a long battle with Jamvant, the truth was revealed. Realizing Krishna’s divinity, Jamvant not only returned the gem but also married his daughter, Jamvanti, to Krishna.

This incident is remembered as proof of the ill effects of seeing the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi.

Remedy for Seeing the Moon by Mistake

If someone accidentally sees the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi, they may suffer from Mithya Dosh (false allegations). To nullify this dosh, scriptures suggest the following remedies:

Listen to or recite the story of Syamantaka Mani.

Offer dakshina (charity or donation) as per one’s ability.

Chant the special mantra dedicated to removing Mithya Dosh:

Singhah Prasenam avadhit, singho Jambavata hatah |

Sukumaraka maro d?stava, hyesha Syamantakah ||

Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.