Skanda Sashti is an auspicious Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Skanda, also known as Lord Murugan, Lord Subramanya, Kartikeya and Shanmukha. Devotees across India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, celebrate this sacred occasion with great devotion and enthusiasm. The festival honours the victory of Lord Skanda over the demon Surapadman, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
Lord Skanda is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and the brother of Lord Ganesha. He is worshipped as the God of courage, wisdom, strength and victory. He is also revered as the commander of the divine army.
According to Hindu mythology, the demon Surapadman and his forces caused great trouble to the Devas. To restore peace and righteousness, Lord Shiva created Lord Skanda. With divine power and his sacred weapon, the Vel, Lord Skanda defeated Surapadman and protected the celestial beings.
The victory of Lord Murugan represents the destruction of negative qualities such as ego, anger, ignorance and arrogance. Worshipping Lord Skanda during Sashti is believed to bring courage, confidence, spiritual strength and protection from difficulties.
How Is Skanda Sashti Celebrated?
Skanda Sashti is observed on the sixth day (Sashti Tithi) of the lunar fortnight. Devotees observe fasting, offer prayers and participate in special temple rituals dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Many devotees undertake Skanda Sashti Viratham for six days, beginning on the first day of the lunar fortnight and concluding on Sashti. Some observe a complete fast, while others follow a simple vegetarian diet according to their traditions and personal capacity.
Special abhishekams, alankarams, archana and devotional bhajans are performed in Murugan temples. Devotees chant sacred mantras and recite prayers such as Kanda Sashti Kavasam and Subrahmanya Bhujangam.
Worship of Lord Murugan
Lord Murugan is worshipped with flowers, fruits, sandalwood paste, incense and traditional offerings. The Vel, his divine spear, is an important symbol of his power and wisdom. Devotees pray to Lord Murugan for good health, prosperity, family happiness, success in education and professional life, and the removal of obstacles.
Visiting Subramanya temples and participating in special poojas during Skanda Sashti are considered spiritually significant. Devotees also seek the blessings of Lord Murugan for peace of mind and spiritual progress.
Receive the Divine Blessings of Lord Skanda
Skanda Sashti reminds us that truth, courage and righteousness always triumph over evil. It inspires devotees to overcome life's challenges with faith, determination and devotion.
May Lord Skanda bless everyone with good health, prosperity, happiness and success. May his divine Vel remove all obstacles, destroy negativity and guide us towards a peaceful and prosperous life.
Happy Skanda Sashti!
With divine blessings from Temples of Kerala.
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