Skanda Sashti, also known as Kanda Shashti, is a significant festival in the Hindu calendar, celebrated in honor of Lord Murugan, also known as Skanda. It is observed on the sixth day of the bright half of the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).
The festival commemorates the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Soorapadman, who represents evil forces. The story goes that Soorapadman was terrorizing the universe, and Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, was tasked with defeating him. After a fierce battle, Lord Murugan emerged victorious, and Soorapadman was defeated.
Skanda Sashti is celebrated with great fervor in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and other parts of South India. Devotees observe fasting, perform special pujas, and offer prayers to Lord Murugan. The festival is also marked by processions, music, and dance performances.
The six days of Skanda Sashti are:
1. Day 1: Soorapadman's arrival
2. Day 2: Lord Murugan's preparation for battle
3. Day 3: The battle begins
4. Day 4: Lord Murugan's victory
5. Day 5: Soorapadman's defeat
6. Day 6: Lord Murugan's triumph (Skanda Sashti)
The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil and is a celebration of Lord Murugan's bravery and power.
Lord Muruga (aka Skanda) is a popular Hindu deity especially among Tamil Hindus. Lord Skanda is son of God Shiva and Goddess Parvati and younger brother of Lord Ganesha. God Skanda is also known as Murugan, Kartikeyan and Subramanya.
ReplyDeleteSashti Tithi is dedicated to Lord Skanda. Devotees observe fast during "Shukla Paksha" Sashti day. As to "Skanda Sashti Vratam", the day when "Sashti Tithi" is combined with "Panchami Tithi", it is observed. Hence "Skanda Sashti Vratam" might be observed on Panchami Tithi.
Skanda Sashti is also known as Kanda Shashti.
The Hindu is sunrise-sunrise, i.e., it begins with sunrise. Therefore, the monthly Shasti fasting begins at sunrise. It is broken the next day at sunrise after offering obeisances to Lord Surya. Aspirants go to Murugan Temple on Shasti.