Skanda Sashti, a sacred observance dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya or Subramanya), holds immense significance in Hindu tradition.
Celebrated primarily in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India, this festival marks the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Skanda Sashti is observed on the sixth day (Shashti) of the lunar fortnight during the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) phase.
In 2025, Skanda Sashti falls on various dates throughout the year, with the most important celebration taking place during the month of Aippasi (October–November), known as Aippasi Skanda Sashti. This blog delves into the 2025 Skanda Sashti Calendar, the significance of the festival, rituals, and the spiritual benefits of observing it.
2025 Skanda Sashti Dates
In 2025, Skanda Sashti is observed every month. Below is the detailed calendar:
| Event Date | Event Name | Tithi | Begins Date | Begins Time | Ends Date | Ends Time |
| January 5, 2025, Sunday | Skanda Sashti | Pausha, Shukla Shashthi | Jan 4 | Begins - 10:00 PM | Jan 05 |
Ends - 08:15 PM
|
| February 3, 2025, Monday | Skanda Sashti | Magha, Shukla Shashthi | Feb 3 | Begins - 06:52 AM | Feb 04 |
Ends - 04:37 AM
|
| March 4, 2025, Tuesday | Skanda Sashti | Phalguna, Shukla Shashthi | Mar 4 | Begins - 03:16 PM | Mar 05 |
Ends - 12:51 PM
|
| April 3, 2025, Thursday | Skanda Sashti | Chaitra, Shukla Shashthi | Apr 2 | Begins - 11:49 PM | Apr 03 |
Ends - 09:41 PM
|
| May 2, 2025, Friday | Skanda Sashti | Vaishakha, Shukla Shashthi | May 2 | Begins - 09:14 AM | May 03 |
Ends - 07:51 AM
|
| June 1, 2025, Sunday | Skanda Sashti | Jyeshtha, Shukla Shashthi | May 31 | Begins - 08:15 PM | Jun 01 |
Ends - 07:59 PM
|
| June 30, 2025, Monday | Skanda Sashti | Ashadha, Shukla Shashthi | Jun 30 | Begins - 09:23 AM | Jul 01 |
Ends - 10:20 AM
|
| July 30, 2025, Wednesday | Skanda Sashti | Shravana, Shukla Shashthi | Jul 30 | Begins - 12:46 AM | Jul 31 |
Ends - 02:41 AM
|
| August 28, 2025, Thursday | Skanda Sashti | Bhadrapada, Shukla Shashthi | Aug 28 | Begins - 05:56 PM | Aug 29 |
Ends - 08:21 PM
|
| September 27, 2025, Saturday | Skanda Sashti | Ashwina, Shukla Shashthi | Sep 27 | Begins - 12:03 PM | Sep 28 |
Ends - 02:27 PM
|
| October 27, 2025, Monday | Soora Samharam | Kartika, Shukla Shashthi | Oct 27 | Begins - 06:04 AM | Oct 28 |
Ends - 07:59 AM
|
| November 26, 2025, Wednesday | Subrahmanya Sashti | Margashirsha, Shukla Shashthi | Nov 25 | Begins - 10:56 PM | Nov 27 |
Ends - 12:01 AM
|
| December 25, 2025, Thursday | Skanda Sashti | Pausha, Shukla Shashthi | Dec 25 | Begins - 01:42 PM | Dec 26 |
Ends - 01:43 PM
|
What is Skanda Sashti?
Skanda Sashti is a religious observance dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Known as the god of war and victory, Lord Murugan is revered for his valor, wisdom, and ability to protect his devotees.
The term "Skanda" refers to Lord Murugan, while "Sashti" denotes the sixth day of the lunar fortnight. Devotees observe this day with fasting, prayers, and rituals to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan for protection, courage, and spiritual growth.
Spiritual Significance of Skanda Sashti
The observance of Skanda Sashti is rooted in the epic battle between Lord Murugan and the demon Surapadman, as described in Hindu scriptures like the Skanda Purana. The festival signifies:
Victory of Good over Evil: Lord Murugan's triumph over Surapadman symbolizes the destruction of negative forces and the establishment of righteousness.
Inner Strength and Discipline: Observing fasts and rituals on this day fosters self-discipline, focus, and inner strength.
Divine Blessings: Devotees believe that worshiping Lord Murugan on Skanda Sashti removes obstacles and brings prosperity, health, and spiritual wisdom.
Rituals and Practices
Devotees follow specific rituals on Skanda Sashti:
Early Morning Bath: Taking a dip in holy rivers or at home signifies purification.
Temple Visits: Offering prayers at Murugan temples and participating in pujas.
Chanting Mantras: Reciting Murugan mantras like Om Saravanabhava or Kanda Sashti Kavasam.
Observing Fasts: Many devotees abstain from food or eat only one meal.
Lighting Lamps: Lighting ghee lamps and performing Aarti enhance the sanctity of the day.
Fasting on Skanda Sashti
Fasting is an integral part of Skanda Sashti observance. Devotees fast to cleanse their body, mind, and soul, offering their devotion to Lord Murugan.
Types of Fasts:
Nirjala Fast: Complete fast without water.
Phalahar Fast: Consuming only fruits and milk.
Satvik Food: Eating a single meal comprising light, vegetarian dishes.
Fasting on this day is believed to:
- Increase concentration and spiritual energy.
- Remove negative influences and karmic debts.
- Strengthen the connection with Lord Murugan.
Benefits of Observing Skanda Sashti Vrat
Overcoming Obstacles: Devotees believe fasting helps overcome challenges and hardships.
Improved Health: Fasting detoxifies the body and enhances physical and mental well-being.
Spiritual Growth: Strengthens faith, focus, and discipline.
Blessings of Lord Murugan: Observing the vrat brings prosperity, courage, and protection.
Conclusion
Skanda Sashti is not just a festival; it is a profound spiritual journey that connects devotees to the divine energy of Lord Murugan. By observing the rituals, fasting, and chanting hymns, one can experience inner peace, courage, and divine blessings.
As you observe the 2025 Skanda Sashti, may Lord Murugan guide you on the path of righteousness, bestow you with strength to overcome challenges, and fill your life with prosperity and harmony.
Embrace the transformative power of Skanda Sashti and let it illuminate your spiritual path throughout the year!