SKANDA SASHTI
Skanda is an ancient deity mentioned in stone inscriptions and shown on coins (1st cent. to 5th cent CE). The story of Skanda is found among others in the Mahabharatha, Shiva Purana and is retold in Kalidasa’s Kumara Sambhavam. Chandogya Upanishad identifies Skanda as Sanat Kumara. In Tamil, Arunagiri’s Thiruppugazh, Nakkeerar’s Thiru Murugatrupadai, and scores of other literatures praise the glory of Muruga in devotional poetry.
The Story of Skanda Sashti
The story of Skanda Sashti is the story of the birth of Skanda or Kumara and the fulfillment of the purpose of His divine incarnation. “Tormented by the asura (demon/anti God) Tarakasura, the devas with Indra at their head went to the world of the self born the creator”
Lord Brahma the Creator said ” only the spark of Shiva can produce the hero who will defeat the powers of the evil” Unfortunately, Shiva The king of yogis was lost in a deep state of meditation and samadhi. None of the Devas dared to disturb him, least of all convince him to create a progeny.
Upon Brahma’s suggestion, they sought the help of Parvati and Kama (the god of love). Parvati agreed to help and engaged herself in severe penance to attract Shiva’s attention. Kama also agreed to help and engaged himself in the suicidal mission of arousing Shiva from His state of Samadhi.
Celebrations and Rituals on the day of Skanda Sashti
Corresponding to the six days of the war over the evil forces, devotees undertake fasts, prayers, devotional singing, recitation of inspiring hymns and reading stories of Subramanya. In Tiruchendur and Tiruparankundram events leading to the conquest of the Asuras are dramatized and the exploits of the Lord are enacted on stage.
During these six days, devotees and thousands of people gather for feasts, and massive amounts of camphor are burnt while most of the devotees stay in the temples.
Penance and Piercing
It is customary to undergo penance on Skanda Sashti in the form of carrying a ‘Kavadi’ to the various Subramanya shrines. Offering of Kavadi on Skanda Sashti is a form of popular worship.
Hymns & Prayer for Lord Subramanya
The Tiruppugal, a popular religious book in Tamil, contains the inspiring devotional songs of Arunagirinathar in praise of Lord Subramanya.
“O Mother Valli, will you not introduce me to Thy Lord? Thy love for Thy children is deeper and truer than that of anyone else in this world. Though I have become Thy worthless and undutiful child, O beloved Mother Valli, pardon me! Make me dutiful and faithful.
Skanda Sashti Viratham
There is no common method of Skanda Sashti fasting. Different devotees observe it differently. But there are some basic rules followed by all the devotees.
Non-vegetarian food is completely avoided during the period.
Some people also avoid garlic and onions.
Those who are observing the fast make it a point to read scriptures related to Lord Murugan or recite the Kanta Sashti Kavasam or Subramaniya Bhujangam.
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