Kandha Sashti Viratham (fast) is a sacred observance dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Skanda, Kartikeya, or Subramanya), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Observed during the lunar month of Aippasi (October-November) for six days, it celebrates the triumph of good over evil when Murugan vanquished the demon Surapadman. Here’s a detailed guide to following this powerful spiritual practice.
Preparation for Kandha Sashti Viratham
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Understanding the Viratham
- The viratham (fast) involves purification of body, mind, and soul through prayer, fasting, and devotion to Lord Murugan.
- Observers should start with sincere intentions and a prayer for Murugan's blessings.
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Basic Preparation
- Purity: Take a head bath daily, clean your home or prayer space, and maintain cleanliness.
- Diet: Abstain from tamasic foods like meat, garlic, and onion. Many people eat once a day (only fruits, milk, or light vegetarian food). Some practice complete fasting.
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Clothing and Colors
- Wear clean and modest clothing, preferably yellow, saffron, or white, as these colors are auspicious for Murugan.
- Avoid synthetic or luxurious attire. Cotton clothes are ideal for simplicity.
Simple Puja Steps for Kandha Sashti
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Morning Rituals
- Begin with a bath and wear fresh clothes.
- Light a lamp (diya) in your prayer room or near a Murugan image or idol.
- Place flowers (especially jasmine or red roses) and offer kumkum and sandalwood paste.
- Recite basic prayers like "Om Saravana Bhava" (108 times) and chant Murugan's name.
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Naivedyam (Offering Food)
- Prepare simple offerings like fruits, milk, jaggery, or a dish like Pongal. Avoid tamasic ingredients.
- After offering, consume this as prasad.
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Reading Scriptures or Chanting
- Recite or listen to the Kandha Sashti Kavacham, which is a powerful hymn invoking Murugan's protection.
- Read or narrate stories of Murugan’s victory over Surapadman.
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Evening Puja
- Repeat the lighting of lamps and chanting Murugan mantras.
- Perform Arti with camphor or ghee lamps while singing devotional songs like "Kandha Sashti Kavacham" or Murugan bhajans.
Mantras and Prayers to Chant
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Murugan Moola Mantra
Om Saravana Bhavaya Namah
- This mantra invokes Murugan’s blessings and removes obstacles.
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Shanmukha Gayatri Mantra
Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Maha Senaya Dhimahi Tanno Shanmukha Prachodayat
- A powerful mantra to meditate on Murugan.
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Kandha Sashti Kavacham
- A hymn of praise that protects devotees from harm and evil forces. It consists of powerful verses for physical and spiritual protection.
Rare Facts About Kandha Sashti
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Symbolism of the Vel (Spear)
- Lord Murugan’s Vel represents wisdom, sharpness of mind, and the destruction of ignorance.
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Six Days of Purification
- Each day corresponds to purifying one of the six chakras in the body, helping the devotee ascend spiritually.
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Surapadman’s Transformation
- After his defeat, the demon Surapadman was transformed into Murugan’s vehicle (the peacock) and his flag (the rooster), symbolizing redemption.
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Kumkum Archana
- Offering red kumkum to Murugan during the six days is believed to fulfill wishes and grant courage.
Practical Steps and Ideas for Modern Times
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Incorporate Technology for Devotion
- Play Kandha Sashti Kavacham or Murugan bhajans on your phone or speaker if you're unable to chant long hymns.
- Join online satsangs or Murugan worship groups for inspiration and shared prayers.
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Work-Life Balance
- If you're unable to fast fully, practice a partial fast by consuming fruits and water during work hours and eating light meals at home.
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Simplified Offerings
- If elaborate pujas are challenging, focus on simple offerings of flowers, water, and chanting mantras sincerely.
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Meditation and Visualization
- Spend 10-15 minutes daily visualizing Lord Murugan with his Vel, sitting on his peacock, and destroying negativity in your life.
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Acts of Kindness
- Help the needy or feed animals, as this aligns with the compassionate values upheld during the viratham.
Benefits of Observing Kandha Sashti Viratham
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Spiritual Growth
- Fasting and prayer purify the mind and elevate spiritual consciousness.
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Overcoming Obstacles
- Murugan is known as the remover of obstacles, granting strength to face life's challenges.
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Health and Discipline
- The dietary discipline and meditative practices contribute to physical health and mental focus.
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Divine Protection
- Chanting hymns like Kandha Sashti Kavacham is believed to provide a shield against negative energies.
By following these practices with devotion and consistency, devotees can deepen their connection with Lord Murugan, seek his blessings, and lead a spiritually fulfilling life.