Wp/efi/Subrahmanya Sashti

Subrahmanya Sashti (Victory Day of Lord Murugan Over Evil)

Subrahmanya Sashti is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated in honor of **Lord Subrahmanya**, also known as **Murugan**, **Kartikeya**, or **Skanda**. He is the son of **Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati** and the commander of the celestial army (Deva Senapati). This festival commemorates **his victory over the demon Tarakasura**.

It is especially observed in **Tamil Nadu**, **Kerala**, **Karnataka**, **Andhra Pradesh**, and **Telangana**, and is considered one of the most powerful days for **removal of negative energies, doshas, and serpent afflictions (Sarpa Dosha)**.

When Is It Celebrated?

Subrahmanya Sashti is celebrated on the **sixth day (Shashti)** of the **Shukla Paksha (waxing phase)** in the **Hindu month of Margashira** (November–December).

It is also known as:

**Skanda Shashti** (Tamil Nadu)
**Kartikeya Shashti** (North India)
**Subrahmanya Sashti** (Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka)

Religious Significance

Subrahmanya Sashti marks the day when **Lord Murugan defeated the demon Tarakasura**, restoring dharma and peace in the universe. It symbolizes the **victory of good over evil**, devotion over ego, and light over darkness.

Devotees pray to Lord Subrahmanya for:

Removal of **Sarpa Dosha**
Protection from enemies
Peace in marriage and family
Childbirth and fertility blessings

Rituals and Practices

1. Fasting and Vratham

Devotees observe a **strict fast** on this day, consuming only milk, fruits, or a single meal after sunset.
In Tamil Nadu, many observe a **6-day Skanda Shashti Vratham**, culminating on Sashti.

2. Temple Worship and Abhishekam

Special **abhishekams** (ritual bathings) are performed using **milk, honey, turmeric, sandalwood**, and **holy water**.
Devotees chant **Skanda Shashti Kavacham**, **Subrahmanya Ashtakam**, and **Kartikeya Sahasranama**.

3. Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja

Subrahmanya is believed to protect devotees from **serpent-related afflictions**.
At temples like **Srikalahasti**, **Kukke Subrahmanya**, and **Palani**, **Sarpa Dosha nivarana rituals** are performed.

4. Kavadi and Pilgrimages

In Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of Karnataka, devotees undertake **Kavadi Yatra** – carrying decorated structures in devotion.
Major pilgrimages are made to **Palani Hills, Thiruchendur, Sikkal, and Kukke Subrahmanya** temples.

5. Cultural Celebrations

The story of Skanda’s war with demons is enacted in villages and temples.
**Devotional music, recitals, and classical dance programs** dedicated to Murugan are held.

Famous Temples Associated with Subrahmanya Sashti

**Palani Murugan Temple**, Tamil Nadu
**Thiruchendur Temple**, Tamil Nadu
**Swaminatha Swamy Temple**, Kumbakonam
**Kukke Subrahmanya Temple**, Karnataka
**Srikalahasti Temple**, Andhra Pradesh
**Bala Murugan Temple**, Karimnagar, Telangana

Observance Across States

**Tamil Nadu** – Grand 6-day **Skanda Shashti Utsavam** in all Murugan temples
**Karnataka** – Celebrated at **Kukke Subrahmanya** with snake pujas and homams
**Telangana & Andhra** – Observed in homes and temples like Kondagattu and Srikalahasti
**Kerala** – Called **Subrahmanya Thiruvizha**, with processions and poojas

Symbolic Importance

Murugan represents **valor, wisdom, and dharma**.
The **Vel (spear)** he wields symbolizes **sharp intellect and divine power**.
Subrahmanya Sashti is also seen as a time for **cleansing the mind and body** through discipline and prayer.

Related Festivals

**Thaipusam** – Celebrated in January/February in Tamil communities
**Panguni Uthiram** – Wedding festival of Murugan and Deivanai
**Nagula Chavithi** – Serpent worship associated with Subrahmanya
**Kartikeya Jayanti** – Birthday of Lord Kartikeya

References

1. Skanda Purana – Story of Tarakasura Vadha 2. Hindu Dharma Granthas – Subrahmanya Mahatmya 3. Tamil Nadu Endowments Department – Skanda Sashti Festival Schedule 4. The Hindu – “Thousands Flock to Palani on Subrahmanya Sashti” 5. Telugu Academy Cultural Studies – Lord Subrahmanya Worship Traditions