India is a land of festivals, each filled with spiritual significance and devotion. One of the most revered observances, especially in the southern parts of India, is the Skanda Sashti Vrat, dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Skanda, Kartikeya, or Subramanya), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Skanda Sashti Vrat is observed to honor the valor, virtue, and divine leadership of Lord Murugan, who is considered the God of War and Victory.
This fast, observed for six days during the waxing phase of the Tamil month of Aippasi (October–November), commemorates Lord Murugan’s triumph over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
The vrat, or fast, is considered highly sacred and spiritually powerful, bringing devotees closer to the divine, purifying the mind, and helping overcome challenges in life.
In this blog, we will explore every aspect of Skanda Sashti Vrat, including its history, significance, rituals, benefits, and the deeper spiritual meanings that make it such an important festival in Hindu tradition.
2024 Skanda Sashti Vrat Dates
| Date | Tithi | Start | End |
| January 16, 2024, Tuesday | Pausha, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 02:16,AM,Jan 16 | Ends - 11:57,PM,Jan 16 |
| February 14, 2024, Wednesday | Magha, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 12:09,PM,Feb 14 | Ends - 10:12,AM,Feb 15 |
| March 15, 2024, Friday | Phalguna, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 11:25,PM,Mar 14 | Ends - 10:09,PM,Mar 15 |
| April 13, 2024, Saturday | Chaitra, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 12:04,PM,Apr 13 | Ends - 11:43,AM,Apr 14 |
| May 13, 2024, Monday | Vaishakha, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 02:03,AM,May 13 | Ends - 02:50,AM,May 14 |
| June 11, 2024, Tuesday | Jyeshtha, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 05:27,PM,Jun 11 | Ends - 07:16,PM,Jun 12 |
| July 11, 2024, Thursday | Ashadha, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 10:03,AM,Jul 11 | Ends - 12:32,PM,Jul 12 |
| August 10, 2024, Saturday | Shravana, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 03:14,AM,Aug 10 | Ends - 05:44,AM,Aug 11 |
| September 9, 2024, Monday | Bhadrapada, Shukla Shashthi | Begins - 07:58,PM,Sep 08 | Ends - 09:53,PM,Sep 09 |
Who is Lord Murugan? The Divine Warrior
Before we delve into the Skanda Sashti Vrat itself, it is crucial to understand the greatness of Lord Murugan and his place in Hindu mythology.
Lord Murugan is the younger son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and the brother of Lord Ganesha. He is predominantly worshiped in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and other parts of South India, where he is known as Kartikeya in the northern regions. Lord Murugan embodies strength, courage, and wisdom, making him the supreme commander of the divine forces.
The Birth of Lord Murugan: A Cosmic Story
The story of Lord Murugan’s birth is fascinating. According to the Skanda Purana, the gods were troubled by the demon Surapadman, who had obtained a boon from Lord Shiva, making him invincible to gods and humans. The demon wreaked havoc, and no one could defeat him. The gods, led by Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu, approached Lord Shiva for help.
Lord Shiva, in response, created six sparks of fire from his third eye, which were carried by the Ganges River to Saravana Lake. There, the sparks transformed into six infants, each nurtured by the six divine maidens known as the Krittikas. Goddess Parvati united the six infants into one child with six faces, thus naming him Shanmukha or Arumuga (the six-faced one). Lord Murugan was born to destroy Surapadman and restore peace to the universe.
The Significance of Skanda Sashti Vrat
Skanda Sashti is observed to celebrate the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Surapadman, a battle that symbolizes the eternal triumph of good over evil. The term "Sashti" refers to the sixth day of both the waxing and waning phases of the moon.
However, the most significant Sashti, known as Skanda Sashti, falls during the waxing moon in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).
The vrat is observed by devotees to pay homage to Lord Murugan’s valor and to seek his blessings for strength, protection, and victory over inner and outer enemies.
Many observe it with the belief that this fasting and devotion will purify their lives, enhance their spiritual growth, and help them conquer challenges, obstacles, and karmic influences.
Mythological Background of Skanda Sashti Vrat
The main event celebrated during Skanda Sashti is the legendary battle between Lord Murugan and Surapadman. After being created by Lord Shiva to lead the divine armies, Lord Murugan engaged in a six-day battle with the demon Surapadman and his forces. Each day of this battle symbolizes an aspect of spiritual struggle and victory.
On the sixth day, Lord Murugan decisively defeated Surapadman. When Surapadman realized he was about to be killed, he pleaded for mercy.
Out of compassion, Murugan spared him but transformed him into a peacock, which became his mount (vehicle), and a cock, which adorned his flag. Thus, Surapadman was not only defeated but was also redeemed, highlighting Lord Murugan’s benevolence and the transformative power of divine grace.
Rituals and Practices of Skanda Sashti Vrat
Observing the Skanda Sashti Vrat involves a variety of rituals and customs, depending on the region and temple. Devotees begin the fast on Pratipada (the first day of the waxing phase of the moon) and continue it until Sashti (the sixth day).
A. Fasting and Devotion
The most prominent aspect of the vrat is fasting. Devotees observe various levels of fasting, based on their capacity and devotion. Some follow a strict water-only fast, while others consume fruits, milk, and light vegetarian food once a day. Abstinence from indulgence is a key feature, as the fast is meant to purify the mind, body, and soul.
B. Worship and Poojas
During the six days of Skanda Sashti, devotees visit Murugan temples, recite Murugan mantras, and offer prayers to the deity. Special pujas and homams (fire rituals) are conducted in temples, especially in prominent shrines like the Arupadai Veedu (the six abodes of Lord Murugan) in Tamil Nadu, including Palani, Tiruchendur, and Thiruthani.
C. Recitation of Skanda Sashti Kavasam
An important part of the worship is the recitation of the Skanda Sashti Kavasam, a powerful hymn written in praise of Lord Murugan. This hymn is believed to protect devotees from evil forces, dispel negativity, and grant spiritual and material blessings.
D. Kavadi Procession
In some regions, devotees carry Kavadi, a symbolic act of devotion. Kavadi is a physical burden carried by devotees, often consisting of an elaborate wooden or metal structure that is carried on the shoulders, as a form of penance or thanksgiving to Lord Murugan. The Kavadi procession is a common sight in Murugan temples during Skanda Sashti.
The Six Days of Skanda Sashti: Spiritual Symbolism
Each of the six days of Skanda Sashti holds deep spiritual significance, symbolizing the stages of overcoming ignorance and attaining spiritual wisdom.
Day 1: Pratipada (First Day)
The first day represents the beginning of the spiritual journey. Devotees pray for guidance and the strength to overcome ignorance, symbolized by the darkness that precedes dawn.
Day 2: Dwitiya (Second Day)
On the second day, devotees focus on purifying their thoughts and emotions. This is a day of inner cleansing, symbolizing the process of detaching from negative tendencies.
Day 3: Tritiya (Third Day)
The third day represents perseverance and faith. Devotees pray for the strength to remain steadfast on the spiritual path, despite challenges.
Day 4: Chaturthi (Fourth Day)
The fourth day symbolizes the destruction of ego and the cultivation of humility. Devotees reflect on the importance of surrendering the ego to attain spiritual growth.
Day 5: Panchami (Fifth Day)
On the fifth day, devotees focus on deepening their devotion and connecting with the divine. It is a day of intense prayers and meditation.
Day 6: Sashti (Sixth Day)
The sixth day is the most significant, as it commemorates the final victory of Lord Murugan over Surapadman. Devotees celebrate this day with great joy and enthusiasm, performing elaborate pujas and rituals to honor the divine victory.
Benefits of Observing Skanda Sashti Vrat
Skanda Sashti Vrat is not just a religious observance but a spiritual practice that can transform one's life. Some of the key benefits of observing this vrat include:
- Overcoming Obstacles: Lord Murugan is believed to help devotees overcome challenges and obstacles in their lives, particularly those related to career, health, and family.
- Spiritual Growth: The vrat helps purify the mind and soul, enabling devotees to experience deeper spiritual insights and personal growth.
- Protection from Evil: Observing Skanda Sashti is believed to offer protection from negative forces, both external and internal.
- Health and Prosperity: Devotees often observe this vrat to seek good health, prosperity, and overall well-being.
- Inner Peace: The fasting and devotion during Skanda Sashti help cultivate inner peace and a sense of surrender to the divine will.
Conclusion:
The Skanda Sashti Vrat is a profound spiritual observance that goes beyond just fasting and rituals. It is a reminder of the eternal battle between good and evil, not just in the external world but within ourselves.
Lord Murugan’s victory over Surapadman symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and righteousness over unrighteousness.
By observing the Skanda Sashti Vrat with devotion, sincerity, and faith, devotees can invoke the divine grace of Lord Murugan, gaining the strength to overcome life’s challenges and progressing on their spiritual journey.
Whether through fasting, chanting, or meditating, participating in this sacred festival offers an opportunity for personal transformation, inner peace, and the blessings of the divine. As you prepare for Skanda Sashti in 2024, may Lord Murugan bless you with victory, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.