The Sri Kanda Sashti Festival, also known as Skanda Sashti, is an important Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya or Skanda, the god of war. This festival is particularly significant in Tamil Nadu and among Tamil communities worldwide. It celebrates the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Key Aspects of the Kanda Sashti Festival
- Duration: The festival spans six days and begins on the sixth day (Sashti) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase) in the Tamil month of Aippasi, which typically falls in October or November.
- Fasting and Devotion: Devotees observe strict fasting and engage in spiritual practices like meditation, chanting, and singing devotional songs dedicated to Lord Murugan. This period of fasting is believed to purify the body and mind, enabling devotees to connect more deeply with the deity.
- Key Events:
- Surasamharam (Victory over the Demon): This is the main highlight of the festival, reenacting Lord Murugan’s battle with the demon Surapadman. This battle is symbolized through grand theatrical performances, often held in temples dedicated to Lord Murugan. The climax of the festival occurs when Murugan defeats Surapadman, symbolizing the ultimate victory of light over darkness.
- Soorasamharam Procession: At the end of the festival, a grand procession takes place where a statue or image of Lord Murugan is taken around the temple or town.
- Temples and Celebrations: Celebrations are especially grand at the famous Murugan temples, such as the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, where thousands of devotees gather. Other major Murugan temples in India, Sri Lanka, and other parts of the world also hold elaborate celebrations, drawing huge crowds.
- Devotional Practices: Throughout the festival, devotees chant hymns such as the “Kanda Sashti Kavasam” and sing other Murugan bhajans. These prayers and hymns are believed to bring peace, prosperity, and protection from evil.
Symbolic Meaning
The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil and promotes values of discipline, strength, and spiritual cleansing. Devotees believe that by observing this festival with sincerity, they can receive Murugan’s blessings, overcome their obstacles, and attain spiritual strength.