- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 03 Jan 2025 11:02 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Skanda Sashti January 2025: The Hindu festival of Skanda Sashti honours Lord Skanda, also known as Lord Muruga or Kartikeya. As the God of war and son of Lord Shiva, Lord Muruga is highly revered in Southern India. Devotees celebrate him on the sixth day of the lunar cycle, known as Shashti. To show their devotion, followers fast from sunrise to sunset, especially when the fifth day of the lunar period ends and the sixth day begins. While Shashti is celebrated with enthusiasm throughout the year, the most significant celebration takes place in the lunar month of Kartik. The first Skanda Sashti Vrat of the Year 2025 will be celebrated on 5th January 2025.
Check out all the significant details regarding the tithi, significance and rituals to worship Lord Murugan on this sacred day below:
Skanda Sashti January 2025: Date And Time
- Skanda Sashti January 2025 Date: 5th January 2025, Sunday
- Sashti Tithi Begins: 10:00 PM, 4th January 2025
- Sashti Tithi Ends: 8:15 PM, 5th January 2025
Skanda Sashti January 2025: Significance
Lord Murugan, the God of Wars, was born from Lord Shiva's third eye to defeat evil forces. As the commander of the gods' army, he famously defeated the demons Soorapadman, Tarakasura and Simhamukha. This victory is celebrated during Shukla Paksha, on the Sashti Tithi. According to legend, Lord Murugan beheaded Soorapadman with his sword, Vel, and two birds emerged from the demon's head - a peacock and a rooster. The rooster became a symbol on his banner, while the peacock became his vehicle.
Devotees believe that praying to Lord Murugan brings numerous benefits, including relief from health issues and spiritual bliss. To reap these benefits, one must pray sincerely and stay committed. Fasting on Skanda Shashti, particularly on the second, third, and fourth days is said to bring good fortune and improve health. Worshipping Lord Murugan on the fifth and sixth days can bring financial prosperity and career advancement.
Skanda Sashti honours Lord Muruga's victory over evil forces, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. (Image Source: Canva)
Skanda Sashti January 2025: Rituals
During Skanda Shashti, devotees of Lord Muruga observe a six-day fast, praying and singing devotional songs to honour his victory over evil powers. Many devotees spend these six days in temples, where the events leading up to the battle are re-enacted. On the final day, devotees offer Kavadi to Lord Muruga. To mark the occasion, devotees abstain from eating beef, onions, garlic and alcohol, and instead consume fresh fruit.
To perform the basic Skanda Shashti rituals, devotees set up Lord Skanda's idol and light a Deepam. They then pour sacred water or milk over the idol and offer new clothes. As a token of devotion, devotees offer Lord Skanda his favourite foods or sweets. During the festivities, devotees also make special requests to Lord Skanda and sing the Skanda Shashti Kavacham Song to seek his protection and blessings.
Skanda Sashti January 2025: Mantra
“Om Saravanabhavaya NamahThuthipporku Valvinaipom ThunbampomNenjil Pathipporku Selvam Palithuk KathithongumNishtaiyum KaikoodumNimalar Arul Kanthar Shashti Kavacham Thanai”
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(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)