Subramanya Shasti, also known as Skanda Shasti, is a significant festival celebrated in South India to honor Lord Kartikeya (Murugan), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This year, Subramanya Shasti will be celebrated on December 6, 2024.
Date and Time
Shasti Tithi Begins: December 6, 2024, at 12:07 PM IST
Shasti Tithi Ends: December 7, 2024, at 11:05 AM IST
Shubh Muhurat
The auspicious time (Shubh Muhurat) for performing rituals on Subramanya Shasti is from 12:07 PM to 11:05 AM on December 6, 2024.
Significance
Subramanya Shasti commemorates the victory of Lord Kartikeya over the demon Tarakasura after six days of battle. This day symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and is a time for devotees to seek blessings for courage, success, and spiritual growth2.
Rituals
- Early Morning Bath: Devotees wake up early and take a holy bath.
- Idol Placement: Place an idol of Lord Murugan on a wooden plank.
- Lighting Diya: Light a diya with desi ghee in front of the idol and offer sweets.
- Temple Visits: Visit temples dedicated to Lord Murugan and offer milk to the five-headed Lord Skanda.
- Special Naivedya: Offer special naivedya made up of urad dal.
- Fasting: Observe a day-long fast from dawn to dusk and break it in the evening after worshipping Lord Kartikeya.
- Avoid Tamsik Foods: Stay away from tamsik food items such as onion, garlic, egg, and meat.
- Special Prayers: Offer special prayers in temples and recite hymns and mantras to seek blessings.
A common mantra recited on this day is:
ShadananaM kumkumaraktavarnam mahamatim divyamayuravAhanam! rudrasya sunum surasainyanAtham guham sada Saranamaham prapadye!
Subramanya Shasti is a beautiful occasion to immerse oneself in devotion to Lord Murugan and seek his blessings for protection, prosperity, and good health