Soorasamharam 2022: Skanda Sashti Viratham, its significance, and related celebrations

The most significant celebration is related to honouring Lord Murugan on Skanda Sashti, also referred to as Kanda Sashti. Skanda Sashti is observed by Hindus from the Tamil region. According to the lunar calendar, Skanda Sashti falls on Karthika Masam' sixth day.

During Skanda Sashti, followers observe a six-day fast that begins on Pirathamai, the first day of the lunar month Karthika, and finishes on Soorasamharam, the sixth day. The last and most significant day of the six-day celebrations is known as Soorasamharam. Every year, the festival of Soorasamharam is held to commemorate the triumph of good over evil, as Lord Murugan is said to have killed the demon Surapadman on this day, bringing peace to the world.

It is crucial to note that Panjami Tithi and Shasti Tithi are conjugated while choosing the day for Soorasamharam Vratam. Therefore, all the temples observe Kanda Sashti if Shasti Tithi begins before sunset on Panjami Tithi.


This year, Soorasamharam will be observed on October 30 as it is the Sashti Tithi in the month of Karthik. The Sashti Tithi starts at 5:49 on October 30 and ends at 3:27 on October 31.

Related FAQs:

1. In what way is Soorasamharam celebrated?
   During the Soora Samhaaram festival, temple idol procession is held in cities every year.
2. A month has how many Shasti?
   There are two Sashti in a month, and Skanda adherents maintain a complete or partial fast on the Shashti that follows the new moon (Amavasya).