Skanda Sashti 2026 Dates || Skanda Sasthi: A Devotional Dedication to Lord Murugan

Significance: Skanda Sasthi is dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Subramanya Swamy), observed on the sixth day (Shasthi) of every lunar fortnight. The Shasthi during the waxing moon phase is celebrated with immense devotion.

Key Rituals and Practices

Fasting: Devotees observe full or partial fasts to honor Lord Murugan.

Special Pujas: Elaborate pujas and offerings are performed on this auspicious day.

Skanda Sashti Kavacham: Chanting this sacred hymn is considered highly auspicious.

Bhajan and Kirtan: Devotees organize grand devotional singing events.

Special Prayers: Married couples without children offer special prayers to seek Lord Murugan’s blessings.

Six-Day Celebration in Tamil Nadu

Skanda Sasthi is celebrated as a six-day festival during the Tamil month of Aippasi, marking the triumph of good over evil.

The Legend: Skanda Puranam

Mythological Context:
According to the Skanda Puranam, three asuras—Soorapadman, Singamugasuran, and Tharakasuran—caused great turmoil for celestial beings. Lord Murugan took avatar form from Lord Shiva’s third eye to vanquish them.
Transformation of Asuras:

Singamugasuran was transformed into Goddess Shakti’s vahana (vehicle).
Soorapadman hid as a mango tree, which Murugan split into two: one half became a peacock vahana and the other a rooster banner.

Symbolism: This destruction represents the victory over ego and illusion, freeing the celestial Devas.

Soora Samharam

Meaning: Soorasamharam marks the destruction of the three asuras by Lord Murugan.
Special Pujas: Temples perform elaborate pujas and abhishekas on this day to celebrate the divine event.

2025 Dates

December 25, Thursday

2026 Dates

January 24

February 22

March 24

April 22

May 21

June 19

July 19

August 17

September 16