- September 24, 2025
Sashti Viratham is a significant observance dedicated to Lord Murugan, the divine son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Millions of devotees, especially in Tamil Nadu, undertake this sacred fast to receive the blessings of Lord Murugan. The most important of these fasts is the six-day observance in the Tamil month of Aippasi, which concludes on Soorasamharam day, commemorating Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Soorapadman.
The Tamil proverb “சஷ்டியில் இருந்தால் அகப்பையில் வரும்” (Sashtiyil Irundhal Agapaiyil Varum) has a deeper meaning. It’s often mistakenly said as “Sattiyil irundhal aappaiyil varum.” The correct meaning is that if one observes the Sashti fast, a child will grow in the womb of a woman seeking to conceive after marriage.
While many believe that Sashti Viratham is only for couples seeking a child, that’s not the case. Anyone who observes this fast with sincerity and devotion can receive great benefits and blessings.
For the year 2025, the Maha Skanda Sashti Viratham begins on October 22, with Soorasamharam on October 27.
The fast begins on the first day (Prathama) of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) of each month and continues for six consecutive days until Sashti. Even observing the fast for a single day on the Sashti Tithi can yield great benefits.
Daily Worship: Every day, wake up early, take a bath, and pray to Lord Murugan with deep devotion. It’s a good practice to set up a Purna Kumbha (a pot filled with water, mango leaves, and darbha grass), place sandal paste and turmeric on it, and then invoke Lord Murugan. Offer flowers and light a lamp to worship him.
Dietary Rules: Devotees must avoid non-vegetarian food, onions, and garlic during the fast. Many observe a complete fast, consuming only water, milk, or fruits. If you can’t fast completely, a single vegetarian meal is permitted.
Discipline: You should not sleep during the day on Sashti Viratham days. Staying awake at night on the main Sashti day is believed to bring additional benefits. It is also advised to perform six-time pooja (worship) to Lord Murugan.
Spiritual Practices: During the six days, you should listen to stories and hymns celebrating Lord Murugan’s virtues and divine deeds. Chanting the Thiruppugazh is highly recommended; the more you chant, the closer you feel to Lord Murugan. Reciting the Kanda Sashti Kavasam in the morning and evening is believed to provide divine protection from all troubles.
Those who observe the Sashti fast will have their karmic burdens turned to ashes. For devoted practitioners, the fast grants both the fulfillment of desires and immense spiritual merit. Observing the Kanda Sashti Viratham with dedication and faith brings great spiritual growth and grace into your life. It is a timeless tradition.
