Skanda Sashti is also known as Kanda Shashti.When Panchami Tithi ends or Sashti Tithi starts between sunrise and sunset then both Panchami and Sashti are conjugated and this day is chosen for Skanda Sashti Vratam. This rule has been mentioned in Dharmasindhu and Nirnayasindhu. Many Murugan temples in Tamil Nadu, including famous Sri Subrahmanya Swami Devasthanam in Tiruchendur, follow the same rule and Soorasamharam day is observed one day before Sashti Tithi if on previous day Sashti Tithi is combined with Panchami Tithi.Although all Sashti(s) are dedicated to Lord Murugan but Shukla Paksha Sashti during lunar month Kartika (which is during Solar month Aippasi or Karthikai) is the most significant one. Devotees observe six days fast which lasts on Soorasamharam day. Next day after Soorasamharam is known as Tiru Kalyanam.Next Skanda Sashti after Soorasamharam is known as Subramanya Sashti which is also known as Kukke Subramanya Sashti and falls during lunar month Margashirsha.

Significance and importance

Triumph of good over evil: Skanda Sashti symbolizes the victory of spiritual light over the forces of darkness and ignorance, represented by the demons. The defeat of Surapadman signifies the conquest of ego, greed, and other negative tendencies that reside within us.

Spiritual growth and purification: Devotees observe a six-day fast (vratham) and perform special prayers to invoke Lord Murugan's blessings for protection, courage, and spiritual development. Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the body and mind and strengthen one's resolve.

Divine grace and blessings: Worshipping Lord Murugan on this day is believed to remove obstacles, bring success in life, and foster spiritual wisdom. The day after Soorasamharam is often celebrated as Thirukalyanam, the divine wedding of Murugan and Devasena, symbolizing harmony and peace.

Intense celebration in South India: The festival is celebrated with great fervor in Murugan temples across South India, especially at the six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu) in Tamil Nadu, with grand enactments of the Soorasamharam.

PARTICIPATE IN THE SHATRU SAMHARA HOMAM