Vaikasi
Visakam is a Tamil Hindu festival celebrated on the day when the Visaka
nakshatra (star) aligns in the Vaikasi month (May-June). In 2026, it
falls on May 30. This day marks the birth anniversary of Lord Murugan,
the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, revered as the God of War
and Wisdom.
Legend
& Mythology
According
to the Kanda Puranam, three powerful demons—Surapadman, Singamukhan,
and Tarakasuran—performed intense penance and received near-immortal boons
from Lord Shiva. They began oppressing the devas (celestial beings),
leading them to seek Shiva’s help. In response, Shiva manifested six divine
sparks, which were carried by Agni (fire god) and Vayu (wind god) to
the Saravana lake. These sparks transformed into six baby boys,
later fused into one by Goddess Parvati, forming the six-headed Lord
Murugan.
Rituals
& Celebrations
- Special Pujas & Abhishekams
– Devotees perform elaborate rituals in Murugan temples, offering
milk, honey, and sandalwood paste.
- Processions & Kavadi Offerings
– Murugan idols are taken on grand chariot processions, and
devotees carry Kavadis as an act of devotion.
- Chanting & Bhajans
– Devotees recite Kanda Sashti Kavacham and other hymns dedicated
to Lord Murugan.
- Charity & Annadanam – Many temples organize free food distribution (Annadanam) for devotees.