Annual Fasts — Hindu Sacred Fast
Skanda Shashthi Vrat
Skanda Shashthi is a six-day festival observed in the Tamil month of Aippasi (Ashwin–Kartik), culminating on the sixth day (Shashthi) with the celebration of Lord Kartikeya's victory over the demon Soorapadman. Known as Kandha Sashti in Tamil Nadu and Skanda Shashthi across North India, it is one of the most important festivals for devotees of Murugan — the son of Lord Shiva and commander of the divine army. Devotees observe a strict six-day fast, reenact the divine war through kavadi processions, and offer vel (spear) as an act of supreme devotion.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Benefits
Grants victory over enemies and personal demons (ego, anger, lust), bestows courage and strength of Kartikeya, removes chronic diseases and long-standing problems, ensures protection from evil forces, brings success in competitive endeavors, and fulfills the deepest desires of sincere devotees.
Procedure
Days 1–5: Observe strict fast eating only once per day (or nirjala). Wake before sunrise and perform Kartikeya puja with red flowers, incense, and fruits. Chant the Skanda Gayatri and Kandha Sashti Kavacham. Visit Murugan temple daily. Day 6 (Soorasamharam): Witness or participate in the reenactment of the slaying of Soorapadman. Perform kavadi if able. Offer vel (spear symbol) and peacock feather. Break fast after the main puja on the sixth day.
When to Observe
Tamil month Aippasi / Hindu months Ashwin–Kartik — six days culminating on Shashthi (October/November). Also observed as a monthly vrat on every Shashthi tithi by Kartikeya devotees.
Fasting Rules
Six-day fast with one meal per day of sattvik food — no onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food, or intoxicants. Some devotees observe nirjala on the final day (Shashthi). Celibacy is observed throughout the six days. Sleeping on the floor is traditional.
How to Break the Fast
Break fast on the evening of Shashthi after the Soorasamharam puja with Murugan prasad — typically panchamrit, fruits, and payasam (sweet rice pudding). Distribute prasad to all devotees present.
FAQ
Q.What is Skanda Shashthi Vrat?
Skanda Shashthi is a six-day festival observed in the Tamil month of Aippasi (Ashwin–Kartik), culminating on the sixth day (Shashthi) with the celebration of Lord Kartikeya's victory over the demon Soorapadman. Known as Kandha Sashti in Tamil Nadu an...
Q.What are the fasting rules for Skanda Shashthi Vrat?
Six-day fast with one meal per day of sattvik food — no onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food, or intoxicants. Some devotees observe nirjala on the final day (Shashthi). Celibacy is observed throughout the six days. Sleeping on the floor is traditional.
Q.When should Skanda Shashthi Vrat be observed?
Tamil month Aippasi / Hindu months Ashwin–Kartik — six days culminating on Shashthi (October/November). Also observed as a monthly vrat on every Shashthi tithi by Kartikeya devotees.
Q.What are the benefits of Skanda Shashthi Vrat?
Grants victory over enemies and personal demons (ego, anger, lust), bestows courage and strength of Kartikeya, removes chronic diseases and long-standing problems, ensures protection from evil forces, brings success in competitive endeavors, and fulfills the deepest desires of sincere devotees.