Significance of Kanda Sashti Vratham !!
Sashti is one of the most important and auspicious days for the Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Muruga. Sashti means the Sixth Day. Sashti Vratham is a bi-monthly occurrence that is observed on the sixth day of each lunar fortnight. On this day, people observe partial or full fast to appease Lord Muruga. Of all the Shashti Vratham, the Kanda Sashti Vratham that falls on the sixth day of the new Moon phase of the lunar month of Aippasi (Aswin) occurring between months of October- November is considered to be more important and auspicious.
Mythologically, it is said that the Devas and the other Gods have been harassed by the demons under the leadership of Surapadman. Unable to deal with their torture, the Gods begged to Lord Shiva for His help. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati sent their son Muruga, endowing him with divine powers to fight the demons. Muruga is said to have defeated the demon Surapadman after a battle of six days. Therefore, the sixth day is celebrated as Soorasamharam in most of the temples. Hence it is strongly believed that a person who offers prayers and observes fasting on these 6 Days will generously receive the blessings of Lord Muruga.
Fasting is considered as one of the most important rituals of Kanda Sashti Vratham. It starts at sunrise and ends on the next day morning after worshipping Lord Surya (Sun God). Those who keep strict Vrath do not eat food for complete 24 hours of fasting. Partial fasting can be done by eating fruits. People who have health problems can also observe Shasti fasting by eating a single meal during the day.
- Observing the fast and worshipping Lord Muruga during the 1st day would improve business and relationships. Businessmen, married couples and unmarried youth are benefited during this day.
- Appeasing Muruga during the 2nd, 3rd and 4th days of Skanda Sashti would bring relief to health problems. It would also bring a sudden turn of events leading to positive results in one’s life.
- Appeasing Muruga on the 5th and 6th days of Skanda Sashti will bring spiritual bliss, financial favors and also growth in career/profession.
Scientifically, any Vrath or fasting is considered as an opportunity to clean the body and get rid of unwanted toxic elements. By observing a Vratham a person is trying to purify his mind through meditation, worship and by sticking to some ‘vow’ that he/she has taken. So, Sashti Vratham is considered very sacred because it signifies the triumph of God’s consciousness within us over the negative bickering in our minds.
