Skanda Sashti Viratham/Vrath is a six day fast observed once a year in dedication to Lord Murugan during the Tamil month of Aippasi [Oct -Nov]. Sashti Viratham is also observed every month during the Sashti Thithi for one day starting early in the morning and ending the next day morning.
The fasting
of Skanda Sashti begins on the first day of the new moon which usually falls on
the day after Deepavali and observed for six days from Prathamai Thithi to
Sashti Thithi. Viratham/Vrath in
Sanskrit means ‘Vow’ which is not merely fasting. The actual meaning of Viratham/promise
which the devotee observes is to purify his/her mind through meditation,
worship Lord Murugan with great devotion, sticking to clean habits, not telling
lies, not getting anger etc. Devotees make it a point to visit Murugan Temples
during these 6 days, chant kanda sashti kavasam, do special prayers, offer food
for the poor and please Lord Murugan and get his blessings.
Other articles that might of your interest…
SkandaSashti Viratham 2023 dates
Origin of Skandha Sashti Festival/Sashti Viratham
How to do the Sashti Pooja at home
