In Sanatan tradition, Lord Murugan is known as the son of Lord Shiva. He is also known by many names such as Kartikeya, Skanda, Kumaraswamy, and Subramaniam. Lord Murugan is worshipped with great devotion and faith, especially in South India. In Tamil culture, Murugan is considered the god of war and knowledge. He is also considered a symbol of strength and bravery.
It is believed that Lord Murugan was born on the Shashthi Tithi, and on this day, he destroyed demons like Tarakasura. This is why this date is known as Skanda Shashthi, and his fast and special worship are performed on this day.
Tradition of Observing Skanda Shashthi Vrat
The Skanda Shashthi Vrat is especially observed on the Shashthi Tithi that comes every month, but the Shashthi of Kartik and Vaishakh months has greater importance. On this day, the person observing the fast should wake up before sunrise and purify the body and mind by taking a bath, etc.
After this, the idol or picture of Lord Murugan is installed on a wooden platform covered with a red cloth. Then, he is purified with Ganga water or holy water. In the puja, sandalwood, roli, flowers, incense, lamps, fruits, and peacock feathers, which are dear to the Lord, are offered.
After the puja, the mantras of Lord Kartikeya should be chanted. After the Aarti, a fast is observed throughout the day. Some people observe a fast without water, while some take fruits. In the evening, the fast is concluded by performing the Aarti of the Lord again.
Mantras and Chanting Method of Lord Kartikeya
Chanting mantras is considered particularly effective in any fast or worship. In the Skanda Shashthi Vrat, the following mantras of Lord Murugan are chanted:
Om Shri Skandaya Namah
Om Saravanabhavaya Namah
While chanting these mantras, a Rudraksha rosary is used. It is a tradition to chant each mantra at least 108 times. It should be noted that a separate rosary should always be kept for chanting, which is used only for worship purposes.
Religious Benefits of Skanda Shashthi Vrat
According to religious beliefs, the devotee receives many benefits by observing the Skanda Shashthi Vrat. The most prominent benefit is said to be the happiness of having children. Couples who desire to have children observe this fast. Apart from this, this fast is helpful in removing obstacles, court cases, and difficulties in life.
It is also believed that this fast is effective in pacifying the inauspicious effects of planets like Mars, Rahu, and Ketu. Skanda Shashthi festival is celebrated on a large scale, especially in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, to please Lord Murugan.
Skanda Shashthi Festival is Celebrated All Over the Country
Although the Skanda Shashthi Vrat has special significance in South India, people in North India have also started worshipping Lord Kartikeya. Especially newly married couples and devotees desiring children observe this fast on this day.
Special events are held in many temples on this day. Grand ceremonies and tableaux are organized in Murugan temples located in Palani, Tiruchendur, Swami Malai, and Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu.
Mythological Story Related to Skanda Shashthi
According to religious texts, Lord Murugan was born from the energy of Lord Shiva. He was sent to kill a demon named Tarakasura to help the gods. It was on Skanda Shashthi that he achieved victory in the war and freed the gods. In commemoration of this, this fast is observed and the Lord is remembered.
What to Offer to God on Skanda Shashthi
Red flowers, peacock feathers, bananas, and jaggery are considered especially dear to Lord Murugan. Offering them in worship is considered auspicious. Apart from this, sandalwood and kewra perfume are also offered to him.
