Sashti 2026 – Date, Significance & Timings

22
April 2026
Wednesday
Sashti 2026
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About Sashti

Sashti (6th lunar day) is the day sacred to Lord Murugan (Skanda/Kartikeya). Devotees observe fasting and sing Skanda Sashti Kavacham to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan for health, victory over enemies, and removal of obstacles.

Significance

Sashti (சஷ்டி) falls on the 6th day of both the Shukla and Krishna Paksha of every lunar month. It is a day particularly sacred to Lord Murugan (also known as Skanda, Kartikeya, or Subramanya), the Tamil deity of war and victory. The most important Sashti observance is Skanda Sashti, which falls in the Tamil month of Aipasi (October-November). This six-day festival culminates in the celebration of Lord Murugan's victory over the demon Soorapadman. Devotees undertake a severe six-day fast during Skanda Sashti. On regular monthly Sashti days, devotees recite the Skanda Sashti Kavacham — a powerful protective hymn that invokes Lord Murugan's blessings. Visiting Murugan temples (like Palani, Thiruchendur, and Swamimalai) and performing abhishekam to the Vel (divine spear) are common practices.

How the Date is Determined

Falls on the 6th lunar day (Shashthi) of the Hindu lunar calendar, occurring twice every month.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sashti?
Sashti (6th lunar day) is the day sacred to Lord Murugan (Skanda/Kartikeya). Devotees observe fasting and sing Skanda Sashti Kavacham to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan for health, victory over enemies, and removal of obstacles.
What are the main activities on Sashti?
Skanda Sashti Kavacham recitation, Murugan temple visit, Fasting, Vel worship, Murugan abhishekam, Kavadi offering.
When is the next Sashti?
Check the date shown above for the next upcoming Sashti.
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