Skanda Sashti Vratham is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Skanda or Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Worshipped as the warrior deity, Lord Murugan was born with a divine purpose: to defeat the evil demon king Surapadman, who terrorized the three worlds, including the realm of the Devas. The six-day event culminates in Soorasamharam, reenacting Lord Murugan's victory over Surapadman. This festival is primarily observed in Tamil Nadu and among Tamil communities worldwide. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and serves as a time for spiritual devotion and renewal.
Skanda Sashti Vratham
Skanda Sashti Vratham is celebrated in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November), beginning on the sixth day after the new moon (Sashti Tithi).
The festival is highly popular among Tamils in Tamil Nadu, as well as Tamil communities in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Singapore, where Maha Skanda Sashti is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. Devotees begin their fast five days before Aippasi Sashti and conclude it on the sixth day, known as Maha Skanda Sashti.
According to the Kanda Purana, Soorasamharam is a dramatic performance based on the legend of Lord Murugan, also known as Kanda. The battle's climax depicts Lord Murugan slaying the demon Soorapadman and his allies, Anamugan, Panumugan, and Simhamugan, using his divine spear, the Vel. The festival is highly popular among Tamils in Tamil Nadu, as well as Tamil people in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Singapore, where Maha Skanda Sashti is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. The Vratham, or fasting period, lasts for six days, during which devotees participate in various forms of worship, prayers, and fasting. Soorasamharam, conducted on the last day of the Skanda Sashti festival, is preceded by special rituals and pujas. In Tamil Nadu, many devotees observe this six-day fast and break it after the Soorasamharam. The day after Soorasamharam is known as Thirukalyanam (the divine wedding), commemorating the sacred marriage ceremony of Lord Murugan and Devasena (Deivanai).
In Palani, the celebration includes a grand procession of Murugan’s idol (Dandayudhapani) through the main streets before the final performance.
At the Tiruchendur Murugan Temple, the Soorasamharam festival is celebrated grandly, attracting thousands of devotees who visit the temple to partake in the festivities.
Significance of Skanda Sashti
Sashti is a significant period dedicated to the divine Lord Murugan. Observing the Skanda Sashti Vratham is believed to attract his blessings and help fulfil sincere wishes and dreams. This Vratham is also thought to bestow immense power and grace, which are essential for overcoming struggles and obstacles. Lord Murugan's divine intervention is said to guide devotees through their challenges and lead them toward a peaceful and prosperous life. Number six is deeply significant in the worship of Lord Murugan. He is depicted with six faces, his six sacred abodes are highly revered, and his mantra, "Sa Ra Va Na Bha Va," comprises six syllables. Observing Skanda Sashti Vratham and worshipping Lord Murugan on this day are considered exceptionally auspicious, as they invoke his divine favour and blessings.
Fasting and Tradition
Devotees observing Skanda Sashti Vratham may choose to follow a strict fasting regimen, either abstaining from all food or avoiding non-vegetarian items for six days.
- Begin the Vratham: Start on the first day of Sashti by waking up early and taking a bath. Light a lamp and recite the "Kanda Shasti Kavasam."
- Daily Observances: Throughout the Vratham, either fast completely for the entire day or limit intake to fruits until the afternoon. Perform puja by preparing and offering a special dish to Lord Murugan.
- Continue the Practice: Follow this routine of morning and evening pujas and fasting for the next five days.
- On the Sixth Day: Observe a full day fast, either abstaining from all food or consuming only fruits, until the completion of Soorasamharam.
- Final Puja: Conduct a special puja on the final day, prepare dishes to offer to Lord Murugan, and conclude your Vratham with devotion and reverence.
Thiruchendur Soorasamharam festival
The Kanda Shasti festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Murugan temples around the world, but the largest and most significant gatherings take place at Tiruchendur, where Lord Muruga is said to have vanquished Suran. Every year, millions of devotees are expected to flock to Tiruchendur to witness the Soorasamharam festival, a key highlight of the celebrations.
The day after the Soorasamharam, the divine wedding ceremony of Lord Muruga will also take place, attracting even more worshippers. During this period, it is customary for hundreds of devotees to stay at the Tiruchendur temple and observe the Kanda Sashti fast.
Related Article: Kanda Sashti Kavasam: A Divine Hymn to Lord Murugan
Tips for Visiting Soorasamharam
- Plan Your Arrival Early: Devotees often arrive a day or two before the main soorasamharam event to secure accommodation and participate in the preparatory rituals.
- Dress Modestly and Comfortably: Given the large crowds and the temple's coastal location, it's advisable to wear light, comfortable, and modest clothing.
- Stay Hydrated and Protected: The coastal weather can be humid, and the crowds can be overwhelming. Carry a water bottle and wear a hat or cap.
- Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Respect the local customs, traditions, and the sanctity of the temple. Maintain silence during the rituals and avoid any disruptive behaviour.
Skanda Sashti Vratham and Soorasamharam 2025
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Kanda Sashti Festival Begins:
October 22, 2025 (Wednesday)Observances continue from October 23 (Thursday) to October 26 (Sunday).
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Soorasamharam on Sashti Day of Ippasi Month:
Date: October 27, 2025 (Monday)
Sashti Thithi: Starts at 3:19 AM on October 27 and ends at 4:31 AM on October 28.
Soorasamharam (Evening Event): 4:15 PM – 6:00 PM IST -
Thirukalyanam:
October 28, 2025 (Tuesday)
Worship Lord Murugan with wholehearted devotion, and experience his boundless love and blessings. With faith and reverence, Murugan fills your life with courage, protection, and spiritual energy, guiding you on the path of righteousness and inner peace.
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