Tithi: Shashthi (6th day of Shukla Paksha, Pausha month)
Day: Monday
Deity: Lord Murugan (Kartikeya, Subramanya, Skanda)
🕉️ Spiritual Significance of Skanda Shashthi
Skanda Shashthi is one of the most sacred days dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya), the divine son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is revered as the God of War, Victory, and Wisdom, symbolizing courage, discipline, and righteousness.
The festival commemorates Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Tarakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the divine victory of dharma over adharma.
It is celebrated every lunar month on the sixth day (Shashthi Tithi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha), but the Pausha Shukla Shashthi holds special importance as it follows Pausha Purnima Snan and marks the beginning of auspicious observances in the new lunar month.
🔱 Mythological Background
According to Skanda Purana, Lord Murugan was created by Lord Shiva’s divine spark to annihilate the demon Tarakasura, who had become invincible. Raised by the Krittikas (Pleiades), the young Murugan became a powerful warrior, ultimately defeating the demon with his Vel (divine spear) on the Shashthi Tithi — hence the day is known as Skanda Shashthi.
Devotees celebrate this day by remembering Murugan’s valor, humility, and divine purpose — inspiring strength, faith, and devotion in their lives.
🌺 Rituals and Puja Vidhi
- Morning Rituals (Snan & Sankalp):
Devotees wake up early, bathe, and take a vow (sankalp) to worship Lord Murugan with devotion. - Murugan Puja:
An idol or picture of Lord Subramanya is decorated with flowers, sandalwood paste, and kumkum. Devotees offer fruits, coconut, and incense. - Chanting of Mantras:
Recitation of Skanda Shashti Kavacham and Subramanya Bhujangam is considered very auspicious. “Om Saravanabhava”
“Om Valli Devasenapataye Namah” - Fasting (Vrat):
Many devotees observe Skanda Shashthi Vrat, fasting from sunrise to sunset, consuming only fruits and milk, and breaking the fast after evening prayers. - Temple Visit:
Temples like Palani Murugan Temple (Tamil Nadu), Tiruchendur Temple, and Swamimalai Temple witness grand celebrations, processions, and abhishekam rituals.
💫 Spiritual Benefits
- Brings courage, wisdom, and protection from evil forces.
- Removes obstacles, diseases, and doshas (especially Mars-related).
- Grants victory in personal, professional, and spiritual battles.
- Enhances discipline, clarity, and divine focus in life.
🕯️ Symbolism of Lord Murugan’s Vel
The Vel (divine spear) gifted by Goddess Parvati represents spiritual knowledge and purity, piercing through ignorance and illusion. Worshipping the Vel on Skanda Shashthi helps devotees conquer inner demons like anger, ego, and doubt.
🧭 Regional Celebrations
- Tamil Nadu: Celebrated with grandeur in Murugan temples like Tiruchendur, Palani, and Thirupparankundram.
- Kerala: Known as Subramanya Shashti, observed with fasting and processions.
- North India: Devotees worship Kartikeya, especially in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, as the youthful god of bravery.
- Sri Lanka & Malaysia: The day is observed with devotion and temple processions, particularly among Tamil communities.
🪔 Astrological and Yogic Importance
Worshipping Lord Murugan on Shashthi strengthens Mars (Mangal) in one’s horoscope. It helps in overcoming aggression, anxiety, and fear, and bestows confidence and vitality.
❓ FAQs on Skanda Shashthi 2026
Q1. When is Skanda Shashthi in 2026?
➡️ Skanda Shashthi falls on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Q2. Why is Skanda Shashthi celebrated?
➡️ It commemorates Lord Murugan’s victory over demon Tarakasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Q3. What is done on Skanda Shashthi?
➡️ Devotees observe fasting, chant Murugan mantras, visit temples, and offer flowers, fruits, and prayers.
Q4. Can Skanda Shashthi Vrat be observed at home?
➡️ Yes. You can perform simple puja, chant “Om Saravanabhava,” and keep a fast with devotion.
Q5. Which temples are famous for Skanda Shashthi celebrations?
➡️ Tiruchendur, Palani, Thiruttani, Swamimalai, and Thiruparankundram temples in Tamil Nadu.
Panchang Official