Introduction
The 7-Day Skanda Sashti Viratham is an extended fast dedicated to Lord Murugan (Karthikeya), observed after Deepavali Amavasya. Devotees undertake this fast to gain courage, spiritual strength, and divine blessings.
The fast culminates in Soorasamharam, symbolizing Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Soorapadman, and may include Thirukalyanam (divine marriage rituals) in some temples.
7-Day Skanda Sashti Viratham Dates – 2025
| Day | Date & Weekday | Observance |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 22 Oct 2025 – Wednesday | Fast begins, morning pooja, light meditation |
| Day 2 | 23 Oct 2025 – Thursday | Daily pooja, chanting Kanda Sashti Kavasam, fasting continues |
| Day 3 | 24 Oct 2025 – Friday | Offer fruits & flowers, morning and evening rituals |
| Day 4 | 25 Oct 2025 – Saturday | Continue fasting, recite Murugan mantras, evening pooja |
| Day 5 | 26 Oct 2025 – Sunday | Prepare for Soorasamharam, focus on meditation and chanting |
| Day 6 | 27 Oct 2025 – Monday | Soorasamharam – main ritual, observe temple/home celebrations |
| Day 7 | 28 Oct 2025 – Tuesday | Final prayers, Thirukalyanam, offer prasadam, charity |
Types of Fasting During 7-Day Sashti Viratham
| Fasting Type | Who Can Take | Foods Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Full Fast (Nirjala) | Experienced adults in good health | Only water |
| Water Fast (Jala) | Adults & healthy youth | Water, tender coconut |
| Fruits & Milk (Phala Ahara) | Beginners, elderly, women | Fruits, milk, fruit juice |
| Partial Fast / One Meal | Beginners, working people, those with health concerns | One light vegetarian meal |
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Daily Rituals
- Morning: Bath, clean pooja area, light lamp & incense, recite Kanda Sashti Kavasam
- During day: Fasting, meditation, chanting Murugan mantras
- Evening: Evening pooja, offer prasadam, break fast if applicable
- Special rituals: Soorasamharam (Day 6), Thirukalyanam (Day 7, if celebrated)
How to Finish 7-Day Sashti Viratham
- Final pooja at home or temple
- Participate/watch Soorasamharam
- Offer prasadam
- Thirukalyanam if celebrated
- Thanksgiving prayers and charity
Tips for Devotees
- Prepare fasting foods and pooja items in advance
- Stay hydrated and listen to your body
- Recite Kanda Sashti Kavasam daily
- Join temple rituals or community prayers
- Focus on meditation, positive thoughts, and charity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is 7-Day Sashti Viratham?
A sacred 7-day fast dedicated to Lord Murugan, culminating in Soorasamharam and optional Thirukalyanam.
How to take 7-Day Sashti Viratham?
Follow morning and evening pooja, observe your chosen fasting type, and recite Kanda Sashti Kavasam daily.
Who can take 7-Day Sashti Viratham?
Adults, children above 12, elderly, women (with modified fasting during menstruation), and anyone healthy enough for fasting.
What to eat during 7-Day Sashti Viratham?
Fruits, milk, sattvic meals, water, or tender coconut depending on fasting type.
What if we get periods during the fast?
Follow modified fasting, practice mental devotion, and optionally do charity. Resume full rituals afterward.
How to finish 7-Day Sashti Viratham?
Perform final pooja, participate in Soorasamharam, offer prasadam, Thirukalyanam (if temple conducts), and give thanksgiving prayers.