Sashti Tithi 2025

Sashti: Worship of Lord Karthikeya (Muruga)

Sashti, observed on the sixth day after the new moon and full moon, is a day dedicated to Lord Karthikeya, also known as Lord Muruga. Muruga is a revered deity in Hinduism, particularly in Tamil Nadu and across South India, symbolizing valor, wisdom, and the power to overcome obstacles. The son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, Muruga is often depicted as the divine warrior who removes obstacles, grants courage, and blesses devotees with victory in their endeavors. Observing Sashti is a deeply significant practice, filled with fasting, prayers, rituals, and devotional acts to seek blessings from Lord Muruga for protection, strength, and success.

Origin and History of Sashti

The observance of Sashti is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology, deeply tied to the story of Lord Muruga’s creation and his subsequent victory over the demon Surapadman. According to the Skanda Purana and other sacred texts, Muruga was born to protect the world from evil forces that disrupted peace across the heavens and earth. Surapadman, a powerful asura (demon), wreaked havoc, terrorizing both humans and gods. To combat this destructive force, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati created Muruga, blessing him with immense power, wisdom, and the divine weapon known as the Vel (spear), with which he was destined to bring peace by defeating Surapadman.

Muruga’s battle with Surapadman was a monumental event, marked by trials and challenges that showcased his strength and resilience. Ultimately, Muruga defeated Surapadman, who then surrendered and transformed into a peacock, becoming Muruga’s vehicle, symbolizing his compassionate victory over evil. This legendary event is celebrated on Sashti, particularly on Skanda Sashti, which falls during the lunar month of Karthigai (November-December). Devotees honor Muruga’s valor and his divine mission as a protector, celebrating Sashti as a reminder of his blessings, guidance, and the hope he instills in his followers.

Mantras to Chant During Sashti

Chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Muruga on Sashti is a powerful way to invite his blessings, protection, and courage. These mantras are typically chanted during morning prayers, while fasting, or in the evening as part of the Sashti observance. Here are some recommended mantras to recite:

“Om Saravanabhavaya Namah”
- This is a simple yet potent mantra that invokes the energy of Lord Muruga. Chanting this mantra brings inner peace, clarity, and courage. It’s often recited 108 times using a mala (prayer beads).
Kanda Sashti Kavacham
- This is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Muruga, specifically chanted for protection from negative influences and removal of obstacles. It is particularly powerful when recited with full devotion on Sashti days.
“Om Shanmukhaya Namah”
- This mantra honors Muruga in his form as Shanmukha, the six-faced god. It is chanted to seek wisdom, clarity, and the power to overcome challenges. Repeating this mantra 108 times is believed to strengthen inner resolve.
“Om Subramanyaya Namah”
- This mantra pays homage to Lord Muruga’s benevolent and powerful form as Subramanya. It is chanted for courage, protection, and victory over life’s struggles.
“Vel Vel Muruga, Vetri Vel Muruga”
- This mantra celebrates Muruga’s divine weapon, the Vel, symbolizing his power to overcome all adversities. Chanting this mantra helps devotees cultivate determination and strength.

Sashti Tithi 2025

Month	Shashthi Tithi Details
January	Jan 4, 10:01 PM – Jan 5, 8:15 PM
	Jan 19, 7:31 AM – Jan 20, 9:59 AM
February	Feb 3, 6:53 AM – Feb 4, 4:37 AM
	Feb 18, 4:53 AM – Feb 19, 7:32 AM
March	Mar 4, 3:17 PM – Mar 5, 12:51 PM
	Mar 20, 12:37 AM – Mar 21, 2:45 AM
April	Apr 2, 11:50 PM – Apr 3, 9:41 PM
	Apr 18, 5:07 PM – Apr 19, 6:22 PM
May	May 2, 9:15 AM – May 3, 7:52 AM
	May 18, 5:58 AM – May 19, 6:12 AM
	May 31, 8:15 PM – Jun 1, 8:00 PM
June	Jun 16, 3:32 PM – Jun 17, 2:47 PM
	Jun 30, 9:24 AM – Jul 1, 10:21 AM
July	Jul 15, 10:39 PM – Jul 16, 9:02 PM
	Jul 30, 12:47 AM – Jul 31, 2:42 AM
August	Aug 14, 4:24 AM – Aug 15, 2:07 AM
	Aug 28, 5:57 PM – Aug 29, 8:22 PM
September	Sep 12, 9:59 AM – Sep 13, 7:23 AM
	Sep 27, 12:04 PM – Sep 28, 2:27 PM
October	Oct 11, 4:44 PM – Oct 12, 2:17 PM
	Oct 27, 6:05 AM – Oct 28, 8:00 AM
November	Nov 10, 1:55 AM – Nov 11, 12:08 AM
	Nov 25, 10:57 PM – Nov 27, 12:02 AM
December	Dec 9, 10:53 AM – Dec 10, 8:30 AM
	Dec 24, 5:47 AM – Dec 25, 6:42 AM

Benefits of Sashti Fasting

1. Strengthens Inner Resolve and Discipline

Fasting requires dedication and self-control, which strengthens inner discipline. The practice of abstaining from certain foods or entirely from food and water helps devotees develop willpower and patience, which are valuable for personal growth and overcoming challenges.

2. Purifies the Mind and Body

Fasting aids in cleansing the digestive system and allows the body to reset. Many devotees report feeling physically lighter and mentally clearer during and after the fast. This purification helps one to focus more effectively on spiritual pursuits, creating a conducive environment for prayer and meditation.

3. Enhances Mental Clarity and Focus

Observing Sashti with devotion fosters mental clarity, calmness, and focus. Many devotees report that fasting helps reduce distractions and allows for deep introspection, leading to better decision-making and enhanced concentration on spiritual practices and personal goals.

4. Invokes Divine Protection and Blessings

Fasting on Sashti is believed to invoke the protective blessings of Lord Muruga. Devotees seek Muruga’s guidance and protection for themselves and their families. The fast serves as a plea for divine intervention against adversities, negative influences, and obstacles, creating a sense of safety and support in daily life.

5. Promotes Physical Health

Regular fasting can offer health benefits, such as improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and enhanced metabolic function. These health effects can contribute to a stronger immune system and a more balanced physical state, supporting long-term wellness.

6. Encourages Positive Thinking and Emotional Resilience

By dedicating oneself to Lord Muruga through fasting and prayer, devotees cultivate positive thinking and mental resilience. Observing Sashti with gratitude and reverence often leads to a greater sense of emotional stability, contentment, and acceptance in challenging situations.

7. Strengthens Devotional Practice

Sashti fasting is an act of surrender and devotion to Lord Muruga. By committing to this practice, devotees deepen their relationship with him, reinforcing their faith, loyalty, and spiritual connection. This regular observance nurtures spiritual growth and helps individuals stay centered on their spiritual path.

8. Removes Negative Karma and Obstacles

Observing Sashti is believed to help reduce the effects of negative karma, as fasting and praying on this day symbolize the devotee’s commitment to righteousness. Devotees seek Muruga’s help in removing obstacles, both material and spiritual, and overcoming difficulties on their path.

9. Fosters Community and Collective Devotion

Many Muruga temples hold special rituals, pujas, and gatherings on Sashti, allowing devotees to come together, reinforcing the collective strength of shared beliefs. This community connection fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose, which can be uplifting and motivating.

10. Empowers Devotees to Overcome Personal Battles

Lord Muruga is known as a divine warrior, and devotees look to him for courage in facing life’s challenges. By fasting, devotees embody Muruga’s qualities of valor, resilience, and determination. The practice encourages devotees to confront and conquer personal struggles, symbolic of Muruga’s legendary victories.

Sashti fasting thus offers a holistic approach to spiritual, mental, and physical well-being, fostering a deeper connection to Lord Muruga while promoting personal growth and divine protection.

Do’s & Don’ts During Sashti

Do’s During Sashti

Fast with Sincerity: Observing a fast on Sashti, whether partial or complete, is a sign of devotion to Lord Muruga. Follow the type of fast that aligns with your capacity, such as consuming only fruits, water, or milk, or fasting entirely.
Take a Holy Bath: Start the day with a holy bath or cleansing ritual to purify the body and mind. This ritual helps set a sacred intention for the day’s devotion.
Chant Muruga Mantras: Chanting Muruga mantras or the Kanda Sashti Kavacham throughout the day strengthens the connection to Lord Muruga, focusing your mind on his divine qualities.
Visit a Muruga Temple or Worship at Home: If possible, visit a Muruga temple and participate in special Sashti pujas. Alternatively, create an altar at home, offering flowers, fruits, and incense to Lord Muruga.
Light a Ghee Lamp: Lighting a ghee lamp in front of Muruga’s image symbolizes the removal of ignorance and negativity. Do this ritual in the morning or evening to invite positive energy into your space.
Maintain Silence and Meditate: Spend time in silence or meditation, focusing on Lord Muruga’s qualities. This practice enhances inner peace, clarity, and devotion, creating a deeper spiritual connection.

Don’ts During Sashti

Avoid Negative Thoughts and Conversations: Sashti is a day of devotion and purification. Avoid engaging in gossip, arguments, or any negativity, as these can disrupt your focus and lessen the spiritual impact of your observance.
Refrain from Heavy or Spicy Foods: During Sashti fasting, avoid heavy, spicy, or non-vegetarian foods. These foods are believed to disrupt the body’s energy flow and hinder the fasting benefits.
Limit Distractions: Avoid distractions such as excessive use of electronic devices, entertainment, or activities that take focus away from your spiritual practices. Instead, dedicate time to meditation, prayer, or reading spiritual texts.
Do Not Break the Fast Midway: If you commit to fasting on Sashti, try not to break the fast halfway, unless necessary for health reasons. The continuity of the fast strengthens willpower and enhances spiritual benefits.
Avoid Overexertion or Strenuous Activity: Sashti is a day of devotion, so avoid strenuous physical activity, which could interfere with the focus and energy needed for worship and meditation.
Refrain from Negative Speech or Actions: Avoid harsh words, criticism, or actions that could bring negativity to your day of observance. Practice kindness, patience, and humility, aligning with the principles of devotion.

Significance of Sashti

Sashti is a day of powerful spiritual significance, especially among devotees of Lord Muruga. Observing Sashti is not just a ritual but a profound spiritual practice that has several layers of meaning:

Victory Over Adversity: The story of Muruga’s victory over Surapadman serves as a symbol of overcoming challenges and triumphing over personal and spiritual obstacles. By observing Sashti, devotees aspire to embody the same courage and strength that Muruga displayed.
Divine Protection and Guidance: Lord Muruga is revered as a divine guardian, protecting his devotees from harm, negativity, and life’s challenges. Through prayers and rituals on Sashti, followers seek his guidance and protection for themselves and their families.
Inspiration for Valor and Resilience: Muruga is the embodiment of courage and resilience, qualities that are reinforced by observing Sashti. By worshipping him, devotees invite these virtues into their lives, enabling them to face their own trials with determination.
Wisdom and Knowledge: Muruga is also celebrated as a deity of wisdom and intellect. Many devotees, especially students and seekers of knowledge, observe Sashti with the intent to gain clarity, insight, and intellectual growth under his guidance.

In South Indian culture, Sashti is celebrated with unique practices, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Temples dedicated to Muruga—such as those in Palani, Tiruchendur, Thirupparankundram, and Swamimalai—hold elaborate rituals and attract large numbers of devotees. These temples are considered highly auspicious for Muruga worship, and Sashti observances at these sites are marked by vibrant celebrations, reinforcing community bonds and devotion.

Observances and Rituals of Sashti

The observances on Sashti include several traditional rituals that connect devotees deeply with Lord Muruga. Each ritual carries symbolic meaning, reinforcing the qualities and blessings associated with Muruga.

Fasting (Vrata): Observing a fast on Sashti is a central practice, embodying devotion and discipline. Many devotees observe a complete fast, abstaining from solid foods or consuming only fruits, water, and milk. The fast is intended to purify the body and mind, helping devotees focus on Muruga and absorb his divine qualities. Some devotees may also choose a partial fast, which involves simple meals without grains or heavy foods. This act of fasting is seen as a commitment to spiritual growth and to receiving Muruga’s blessings.
Abhishekam (Sacred Bathing): In both temples and homes, devotees perform Abhishekam (a sacred bathing ritual) to Muruga’s idol or picture. Abhishekam involves bathing the idol in water, milk, turmeric, sandalwood paste, and other sacred items, symbolizing cleansing and sanctification. This ritual, conducted with chants and prayers, honors Muruga’s presence and invites his blessings of purity and spiritual protection.
Reciting Kanda Sashti Kavacham: The Kanda Sashti Kavacham is a highly revered hymn dedicated to Muruga. Reciting this hymn on Sashti is believed to create a shield of divine protection, keeping negativity and harmful forces away. The Kavacham is recited with full concentration and devotion, calling upon Muruga’s powers to protect and guide the devotees through life’s trials.
Offering Flowers and Fruits: Devotees offer Muruga his favorite items, such as jasmine flowers and seasonal fruits. These offerings are symbols of gratitude, representing the devotee’s sincere intentions and humility before Muruga. Offering flowers and fruits is an essential part of Sashti observances, as it enhances the spiritual connection with the deity.
Temple Visits and Processions: Visiting a Muruga temple on Sashti is an important practice for devotees. Many temples hold special pujas and rituals on this day, with Muruga’s idol taken in a ceremonial procession. This procession is accompanied by music, dance, and singing, creating an atmosphere filled with reverence and devotion.
Community Singing and Bhajans: Group chanting and singing of bhajans or devotional songs in praise of Muruga are common on Sashti. These gatherings foster unity and shared faith, with devotees coming together to celebrate Muruga’s qualities and seek his blessings collectively.

Remedies for Observing Sashti

Observing Sashti with devotion includes specific remedies that are believed to amplify Lord Muruga’s blessings. These remedies, encompassing self-performed practices, Homas, and Puja or Japa, provide devotees with varied ways to seek divine guidance and protection.

Fasting on Sashti is a powerful remedy to invite Muruga’s blessings. This self-performed practice purifies the devotee’s body and mind, fostering a focused connection with Muruga. Through fasting, devotees align themselves with Muruga’s values, seeking his guidance for resilience, protection, and spiritual growth.
Reciting the Kanda Sashti Kavacham is a potent self-performed remedy. This hymn, dedicated to Muruga, is believed to invoke his protective energy and courage. Devotees recite this hymn, especially on Sashti, to surround themselves with a divine shield, receive Muruga’s guidance, and overcome obstacles in life.
The Subramanya Homa is a sacred fire ritual dedicated to Lord Muruga. This Homa is performed to seek relief from obstacles, particularly in areas such as career, personal development, and spiritual growth. The ritual involves offering specific items into the fire while chanting Muruga’s mantras, inviting his blessings for success, protection, and removal of impediments.
The Sarpa Shanti Homa is performed to appease Lord Muruga and seek relief from the effects of Rahu-Ketu doshas or Sarpa doshas (afflictions related to planetary alignments) in one’s birth chart. This remedy is particularly beneficial for those facing challenges due to unfavorable planetary influences, as it invokes Muruga’s power to eliminate difficulties and offer divine protection.
Performing a simple yet sincere Sashti Puja is a powerful way to honor Lord Muruga. This puja can be done at home or in a temple dedicated to him. The ritual involves lighting a ghee lamp, offering fresh flowers and fruits, and chanting Muruga’s names or mantras. This puja is a direct way to connect with Muruga, inviting his protective blessings for peace and prosperity within the family.
Chanting the mantra “Om Saravanabhavaya Namah” as a form of Japa is a highly effective remedy for devotees. By reciting this mantra 108 times on Sashti, devotees create a spiritual vibration that invites Muruga’s energy, fostering inner peace, courage, and a sense of divine presence. This Japa practice is particularly powerful for developing mental clarity and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sashti

Q1: What is Sashti?
Sashti is the sixth lunar day after the new moon and full moon, dedicated to Lord Muruga. This day is observed with fasting and prayers for protection, courage, and divine blessings.

Q2: Why is Sashti associated with Lord Muruga?
Sashti is linked to Muruga’s legendary victory over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing his divine strength and protective nature. The day celebrates his qualities of valor and guidance.

Q3: How is Sashti observed?
Devotees observe Sashti by fasting, reciting hymns like Kanda Sashti Kavacham, and performing rituals at home or in temples dedicated to Muruga.

Q4: What is the significance of fasting on Sashti?
Fasting on Sashti is a form of devotion and self-purification. It invites Muruga’s blessings for resilience, courage, and spiritual protection.

Q5: What is Kanda Sashti Kavacham?
The Kanda Sashti Kavacham is a powerful hymn dedicated to Lord Muruga, recited to seek his protection and courage in facing life’s obstacles.

Q6: Who can observe Sashti?
Sashti can be observed by anyone, including devotees of all backgrounds, who wish to seek protection, guidance, and blessings from Muruga.

Q7: What foods are avoided during Sashti fasting?
Devotees commonly avoid grains and heavy foods, opting for fruits, water, and milk to focus on spiritual practices.

Q8: Is Sashti only celebrated in Tamil Nadu?
While Sashti is particularly popular in Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated by Muruga devotees in various regions, each with unique observances.

Q9: What is Skanda Sashti?
Skanda Sashti is a six-day festival commemorating Muruga’s victory over Surapadman, particularly celebrated in Tamil Nadu.

Q10: Can children participate in Sashti rituals?
Yes, children can join in rituals by offering flowers, listening to stories, and learning about Muruga’s qualities.

Q11: What is the purpose of lighting a ghee lamp on Sashti?
Lighting a ghee lamp symbolizes removing ignorance and inviting divine wisdom, creating a sacred space for devotion.