The festival of Skanda Shasti commemorates the birth of Lord Muruga, the God of war and son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, also addressed by the names Subramania, Kartikeya, Skanda, etc. It takes place in the Karthika/Aippasi month on the sixth day of the ‘Shukla Paksha’ (waxing phase of the moon) during October-November.
Natives of Tamil Nadu and the surrounding areas enthusiastically celebrate the grand occasion. On the day of Skanda Sashti, worshippers praise the Lord by observing fast or Vrat for casting out the demon ‘Soorapadman’ and restoring peace.
Skanda Shasti Fasting Rituals
On this particular day, worshippers wake up early, take a shower, honor Lord Murugan, and keep fast the entire day. They offer him a lamp made of oil, incense, flowers, kumkum, and other things. Also, some followers go to a temple to pray.
During six days, devotees fast to appease Muruga and obtain his blessings. According to the customs, the fasting period starts at sunrise and ends early the next morning. Also, the type of fasting varies from person to person; some observe full-day fasts, while others practice partial fasts.
Skanda Shasti fasting rituals to be adhered to
- Avoid eating anything that isn’t vegetarian.
- Do not use garlic or onions.
- Read the Kanda Shasti Kavasam or the Subramaniya Bhujangam, or recite a passage on Muruga.
- Tour Skanda temples.
- During the fasting time, eat just one meal, if at all possible; eat it at noon or after sunset;
- The optimum diet consists primarily of fruit juice.
Skanda Shasti Vrat Benefits
According to Vedic Hindu texts, sincere and committed people benefit from observing Skanda Shasti Vrat by getting Lord Kartikeya’s blessings. It is a great day for organizations and married couples to intensify their relationships.
On Skanda Shashti Day, pray to Lord Muruga to find your life partner.
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