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கந்த சஷ்டி - ஆறு நாள் முருகன் திருவிழா

Skanda Sashti - Six Day Murugan Festival

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Skanda Sashti - Six Day Murugan Festival

Skanda Sashti is a six-day festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, commemorating his victory over the demon Surapadman. It falls in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November), concluding on the 'Sashti' day. Each day involves special prayers, fasting, and the reading of the Skanda Puranam, which narrates the story of Murugan's birth and his battle against evil. The final day culminates in a dramatic reenactment of the Soorasamharam, the destruction of Surapadman and his brothers.

Significance

Skanda Sashti symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the importance of courage and righteousness. It is a time for devotees to seek Lord Murugan's blessings for protection from negative forces and for spiritual growth. Fasting and prayers during these six days are believed to purify the mind and body and bring divine grace.

Rituals & traditions

  1. Fasting· விரதம்

    Throughout the six days.

    Observing a strict fast for six days, consuming only water or fruits.

  2. Skanda Puranam Recitation· ஸ்கந்த புராணம் பாராயணம்

    Daily during the festival.

    Reading and listening to the Skanda Puranam, which narrates the story of Lord Murugan.

  3. Soorasamharam· சூரசம்காரம்

    Final day of the festival (Sashti).

    Reenactment of the battle between Lord Murugan and Surapadman, culminating in the destruction of the demon.

  4. Special Pujas & Abhishekam· சிறப்பு பூஜைகள் மற்றும் அபிஷேகம்

    Daily during the festival.

    Elaborate pujas and ritualistic bathing of the deity with various substances.

How to celebrate

Observe a fast, read or listen to the Skanda Puranam, visit a Murugan temple, and witness the Soorasamharam. Engage in prayers and meditation. Offer flowers and fruits to Lord Murugan. Donate to the needy and participate in community gatherings.

When it happens

Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November), concluding on Sashti

Tags

  • #Murugan
  • #Skanda Sashti
  • #Soorasamharam
  • #Aippasi
  • #Tamil Festival
  • #Hinduism
  • #Skanda Puranam
  • #Fasting
  • #Tamil Nadu
  • #Lord Karthikeya
  • #Victory over Evil