Devotees from all over the country are preparing for the grand day of the Skanda Sashti Viratham. This is one of the most significant fast days in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Murugan. This ritual goes on for a period of six days, which consists of intense prayer that concludes with the grand spectacle of Soorasamharam.
The ritual is performed mainly in Tamil Nadu. However, it is also celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Sri Lanka, and the district of Palakkad in Kerala. The festival is celebrated to remember the defeat of the embodiment of ego and ignorance by Lord Murgan using his divine spear (Vel).
Important dates to observe
Tuesday, October 28, 2025: Skanda Sashti Viratham (Fasting begins)
Sunday, November 2, 2025: Soorasamharam
Monday, November 3, 2025: Thirukalyanam (Divine wedding)
Fasts, Rituals and religious prayers
The Fast (Viratham): Some of the devotees go through a complete fast, consuming only water for all six days; however, others observe a partial fast, consuming only fruits and milk once daily after the evening puja.
Religious prayers: The most significant prayer during this period is the chanting of the Kanda Sashti Kavasam. This powerful hymn is chanted to invoke Lord Murugan’s protection and is recited daily.
Rituals: On these days, devotees perform spiritual rituals and read scriptures related to Lord Murugan. They practice to refrain from worldly comforts and focus on meditation and prayers. The fast is broken on the morning after Soorasamharam.
While the festival is celebrated in all Murugan temples, the grandest of all can be seen at the Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy Temple in Tiruchendur. This temple is uniquely situated on the seashore and is believed to be the actual site of the mythical battle of Lord Murugan.
The festival will conclude on November 3, 2025, by celebrating the divine marriage of Lord Murugan to Goddess Deivanai, which marks the restoration of dharma and prosperity.
