Skanda Sashti 2025: Here is the date, rituals, significance, mantra, and much more

When is Skanda Sashti in 2025?

Credit: Tv9Telugu

While Shashti is celebrated enthusiastically throughout the year, the most important event occurs in the lunar month of Kartik. The first Skanda Sashti Vrat of the Year 2025 will be celebrated on January 5, 2025.

Significance of Skanda Sashti

Credit: Amar Ujala

Lord Murugan, the God of War, sprang from Lord Shiva's third eye to combat evil forces. As leader of the gods' army, he famously defeated the demons Soorapadman, Tarakasura, and Simhamukha. This triumph is commemorated during Shukla Paksha on the Sashti Tithi. According to mythology, Lord Murugan decapitated Soorapadman with his sword Vel, causing two birds to sprout from the demon's head: a peacock and a rooster. The rooster became a sign on his banner, and the peacock became his car. Devotees believe that prayer to Lord Murugan provides several benefits, including healing from illnesses and spiritual joy. To gain these benefits, one must pray genuinely and consistently. Fasting during Skanda Shashti, particularly on the second, third, and fourth days, is believed to bring good fortune and improve health. Worshiping Lord Murugan on the fifth and sixth days can result in financial prosperity and professional advancement.

Rituals of Skanda Sashti

Credit: Pinterest

Skanda Sashti is observed through a series of significant rites that assist believers connect spiritually with Lord Muruga. Here's a quick summary of the important practices:

Fasting and Prayer: Devotees fast for six days before Skanda Sashti, abstaining from grains and specific foods. They worship and meditate, focusing on Lord Murugan and repeating his mantras.

The Soorasamharam Ritual is an essential component of the Skanda Sashti Vrat. On this day, devotees commemorate Lord Murugan's victory over the demon Soorapadman, generally with magnificent processions and rites at Murugan temples. In certain temples, followers recreate the struggle between Lord Murugan and the demon to represent the triumph of good over evil.

Tiru Kalyanam: Following the Soorasamharam, the next day is observed as the heavenly wedding of Lord Murugan and his spouse, Deivayanai, known as Tiru Kalyanam. Elaborate rituals, prayers, and temple processions distinguish this occasion.

Visiting Murugan Temples: Many devotees go to major Murugan temples, such as the Sri Subrahmanya Swami Devasthanam in Tiruchendur or the Palani Murugan Temple, to pray and engage in celebratory festivities.

Skanda Sashti Mantra

Ą°Om Saravanabhavaya NamahThuthipporku Valvinaipom ThunbampomNenjil Pathipporku Selvam Palithuk KathithongumNishtaiyum KaikoodumNimalar Arul Kanthar Shashti Kavacham ThanaiĄą

Temples Dedicated to Lord Murugan

Lord Murugan is revered in many temples throughout India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where the Skanda Sashti festival is celebrated with tremendous enthusiasm. Some of the most prominent Murugan temples, known as the Arupadaiveedu, are located in Tamil Nadu and are essential to the Skanda Sashti observance.

• Palani Murugan Temple (100 km southeast of Coimbatore)
• Swamimalai Murugan Temple (Near Kumbakonam)
• Thiruthani Murugan Temple (84 km from Chennai)
• Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple (10 km north of Madurai)
• Sri Subrahmanya Swami Devasthanam, Tiruchendur (40 km south of Thoothukudi)
• Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple (10 km south of Madurai)

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.