Skanda Shashti 2025: A Divine Day of Worship for Lord Murugan
Skanda Shashti, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya), is celebrated with great reverence and devotion. In 2025, Skanda Shashti falls on 5th January, a date that holds immense importance for devotees across the world, especially in South India and among Tamil communities. This festival is observed to honor Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Who is Lord Murugan?
Lord Murugan, also referred to as Skanda, Subramanya, and Kartikeya, is the younger son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the brother of Lord Ganesha. He is widely revered as the God of War, protector of the righteous, and the deity of Tamil culture. He is depicted as a powerful warrior riding a peacock, holding a spear known as the Vel. His worship is particularly prominent in the southern states of India, especially Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, as well as in countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Singapore where Tamil communities thrive.
Significance of Skanda Shashti
Skanda Shashti is observed on the sixth day (Shashti) of the waxing moon during the lunar month of Kartika. It is believed that on this day, Lord Murugan defeated the powerful demon Surapadman, who had been causing havoc in the universe. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, righteousness over sin, and dharma over adharma.
The Skanda Purana, one of the most revered scriptures in Hinduism, recounts the story of this epic battle. Lord Murugan, with his divine weapon Vel, destroyed the demon and his army, liberating the world from tyranny. This victory is celebrated as Skanda Shashti, and it holds a special place in the hearts of Murugan devotees.
Skanda Shashti 2025: Date and Timings
- Date: 5th January 2025 (Sunday)
- Tithi: Shukla Paksha Shashti (sixth day of the waxing moon)
- Start – 10:00 PM, January 04
- End – 08:15 PM, January 05
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Rituals and Traditions of Skanda Shashti
- Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast on this day to purify their mind, body, and soul. The fast can either be a full-day fast, where one refrains from eating anything, or a partial fast where devotees consume only fruits and milk. This act of penance is believed to please Lord Murugan and seek his blessings for overcoming obstacles in life.
- Recitation of Kanda Sashti Kavasam: One of the key rituals of this day is the recitation of Kanda Sashti Kavasam, a powerful devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Murugan. This hymn is believed to protect devotees from evil forces, bring prosperity, and ensure spiritual growth.
- Temple Visits: Devotees throng Murugan temples, especially the six famous abodes of Lord Murugan, known as Arupadai Veedu, in Tamil Nadu. Temples like Thiruchendur, Palani, Thiruparankundram, Swamimalai, Pazhamudircholai, and Thiruthani witness large gatherings of devotees during this festival. Special poojas, abhishekams, and processions are held in these temples to honor the deity.
- Subramanya Homam: Many families perform the Subramanya Homam, a sacred fire ritual dedicated to Lord Murugan. This homam is believed to bring peace, prosperity, and protection to the household.
- Devotee Processions and Plays: In some regions, devotees enact the story of Lord Murugan’s battle with Surapadman through elaborate plays and processions. These cultural performances highlight the significance of the festival and Lord Murugan’s heroism.
- Abhishekam: In Murugan temples, the idol of the deity is bathed with various sacred substances such as milk, honey, sandalwood paste, and rose water. This ritual is performed to purify the idol and invoke the deity’s blessings.
Importance of Skanda Shashti in Modern Times
Skanda Shashti holds great spiritual significance even in modern times. It is a day for devotees to reflect on their inner strength and the triumph of good over evil. The festival teaches us that challenges and negativity can be overcome with determination, devotion, and faith in the divine. Many devotees, especially those facing personal or professional struggles, turn to Lord Murugan for guidance and support.
Lord Murugan is often worshipped for removing obstacles, bringing marital harmony, ensuring the welfare of children, and overcoming financial difficulties. It is believed that by observing fasts and performing rituals on Skanda Shashti, one can gain the strength to face life’s challenges and emerge victorious, just like Lord Murugan did in his battle with Surapadman.
Conclusion
Skanda Shashti 2025, falling on 5th January, is a sacred occasion for devotees of Lord Murugan to express their devotion and seek his divine blessings. It is a day of fasting, worship, and celebrating the victory of good over evil. By observing the rituals with sincerity, devotees can invoke the grace of Lord Murugan, overcome their struggles, and move forward on the path of righteousness and spiritual growth.
May Lord Murugan bless all devotees with strength, prosperity, and peace on this auspicious day of Skanda Shashti 2025!
