Skanda Shasti, a significant festival in Hinduism, is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the God of war and victory. Celebrated by Saivites (followers of Lord Shiva), the festival commemorates Lord Murugan's triumph over the demon Surapadman. The word "Shasti" means six, and Skanda Shasti refers to the six-day period from Sukla Paksha Pratama (the first day of the waxing moon) to Shashti (the sixth day) in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).
During these six days, devotees observe fasting and engage in prayers, seeking Lord Murugan's blessings for victory in both material and spiritual challenges. This festival is predominantly observed in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India.
Significance of Skanda Shasti
Skanda Shasti celebrates Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Soorapadman, a momentous event known as Soorasamharam, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This festival offers devotees a chance to renew their dedication to spiritual practices. Fasting during Kanda Shasti is seen as especially sacred, as it strengthens spiritual discipline, purifies both mind and body, and fosters a deeper connection with Lord Murugan.
The number six holds profound meaning in the worship of Lord Murugan. He is often portrayed with six faces, his six sacred abodes are deeply venerated by devotees, and his potent mantra, "Sa Ra Va Na Bha Va," is composed of six syllables, reflecting the divine essence of his presence.
What are the different Rituals of Fasting During Kanda Shasti?
The different ways in which devotees observe the Skanda Shasti fast, ranging from partial fasting to complete abstinence from food. Here’s an overview of the various forms of fasting:
- Partial Fast (Sa Uppavasam): Devotees eat a single meal a day, usually consisting of simple, sattvic (pure) food like fruits, nuts, and dairy products. They avoid spicy, oily, and tamasic (heavy) foods.
- Full Fasting (Nirjala Vrat): In this form of fasting, devotees completely abstain from food and water. They observe this stringent fast with complete devotion and surrender to Lord Murugan.
- Liquid Fast: Some devotees consume only liquids such as water, coconut water, and fresh fruit juices during the six days. This form of fasting is less intense than the full fast but still requires discipline.
- One Meal a Day: A common practice is consuming one sattvic meal at night, after offering prayers and performing pujas for Lord Murugan. This is typically a vegetarian meal with no onions or garlic.
- Abstinence from Certain Foods: Many devotees abstain from meat, alcohol, and processed food during Kanda Shasti. The focus is on purity of body and mind, and the diet is aligned with spiritual goals.
What are the benefits of fasting during Skanda Shasti?
- Detoxification: Fasting enables the body to cleanse itself naturally by eliminating toxins. Abstaining from heavy foods provides the digestive system with a break, allowing it to rejuvenate.
- Improved Digestion: A simple diet of fruits, nuts, and liquids enhances the efficiency of the digestive system, helping to reduce bloating, indigestion, and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Mindfulness and Self-Control: Fasting promotes self-control, teaching practitioners to extend this discipline beyond food into other aspects of life. It cultivates mindfulness in both actions and thoughts.
- Increased Devotion: Devotees believe that fasting enhances their devotion and surrender to Lord Murugan. By focusing on the divine, individuals deepen their spiritual connection and attain inner peace.
What can be done during Skanda Shasti?
- Every morning and evening, offer flowers, light a lamp, and perform aarti with camphor to the image of Lord Murugan at home.
- Chant the mantra "Om Saravana Bhava" 108 times in the morning and 108 times in the evening.
- Recite the Skanda Shasti Kavacham as many times as possible throughout the day.
- Visit a nearby Murugan temple daily for darshan and listen to the Skanda Puranam during all six days.
- If fasting for all six days is not possible, it is recommended to refrain from eating anything on the day of Shasti.
- Those observing the fast should drink more water than usual to stay hydrated.
What should not do during Skanda shasti?
- During the Shashti fast, one should not consume non-vegetarian food.
- One should sleep on the floor with a blanket spread out at night.
- Do not scold anyone or speak in anger for any reason.
Skanda Shasti is not just a festival but a six-day journey of devotion, fasting, and self-purification, celebrating the triumph of good over evil. During this sacred period, devotees of Lord Murugan engage in deep prayer and fasting, seeking His divine blessings. The highlight of this festival, the dramatic event of Soorasamharam, reminds us of the eternal battle between good and evil, and how faith in Lord Murugan can help us overcome the obstacles we face in life.
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