Skanda Sashti August 2024: Skanda Sashti, also referred to as Kanda Sashti, is a significant and auspicious festival in the Tamil Hindu calendar, observed on the sixth day of the bright half of the month of Aippasi. This prominent celebration is widely commemorated in the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and other regions, primarily in Saivite temples dedicated to Lord Subramanya, also known as Lord Kartikeya, the revered son of Lord Shiva. The festival marks the triumph of good over evil, as it honours the legendary destruction of malevolent forces by Lord Kartikeya. This joyous celebration is an integral part of the cultural and religious heritage of South India, fostering devotion, spiritual growth, and community bonding among the faithful. Skanda Sashti in the month of August will be observed on 10th August 2024.
Skanda Shashti 2024: Date And Time
Skanda Sashti August 2024 Date: 10th August 2024
Shashti Tithi Begins: 03:14 AM, 10th August 2024
Shashti Tithi Ends: 05:44 AM, 11th August 2024
Skanda Shashti 2024: Significance Of This Sacred Day
According to legend, Sashti commemorates Lord Skanda's victory over the malevolent demon Soorapadman, who was wreaking havoc on the world. The deities, unable to bear Soorapadman's evil deeds, sought the intervention of Lord Shiva and Parvati. Lord Skanda, their son, engaged in a fierce battle with Soorapadman for six days before ultimately defeating him. With his divine weapon, Lord Skanda split Soorapadman into two halves, transforming one half into a peacock, which became his vehicle, and the other half into a rooster, which became his emblem.
Skanda Shasti commemorates the triumphant victory of Lord Kartikeya over the malevolent demon Surapadman, celebrating the divine triumph of good over evil. (Image Source: Canva)
The gods rejoiced at Lord Skanda's triumph, and devotees recite the Skanda Sashti Kavacham during this period to seek his protection and blessings. It is believed that those who fast and pray to Lord Muruga for the six days of Skanda Sashti will receive his divine blessings and grace.
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Skanda Shashti 2024: Rituals Associated With This Sacred Day
During the six-day Skanda Sashti festival, devotees demonstrate their devotion to Lord Muruga through fasting, prayer, and worship. Some devotees choose to reside in temples during this period, while others participate in reenactments of Lord Muruga's victory over the Asuras at specific temples like Tiruchendur and Tiruparankundram. The offering of Kavadi is a unique form of worship observed during this time. While there are no strict rituals, devotees typically follow a fasting regimen, abstaining from all food or consuming only fruits and unsalted dishes. They also recite the Skanda Sashti Kavacham, a six-part prayer, and the 'Om Sharavana Bhava' mantra to seek protection and blessings from Lord Murugan.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confit its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)