Shukla Shasti means the 6th day or the lunar day of Shukla Paksha. The day is dedicated to Lord Skanda or the Lord Muruga, which is also known as Kartikey, Subramanya, Saravana, Vadivela, and Kumara. He is the war of God and the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. In South India, he is considered as the younger brother of Lord Ganesha, while in North India, he is elder to Ganesha.
The Ashwina Shukla Skanda Shasti is an important event in the South region of India, and thus it is celebrated according to the South calendar. This year the celebration will begin on Wednesday, October 21, 2020, at 9:07 am (IST) and will end on October 22, 2020, at 7:39 am (IST).
How is the Shukla ShastiCelebrated?
The Shukla Shasti is majorly celebrated among the Tamil community around the world. People observe fast on this day; it is their belief that doing so brings them prosperity and rid of negativity, which establishes them as more successful.
The fast is observed right after the Sunrise, and people conclude it the next day after seeing the Sunrise again. During the fast, devotees can eat fruits and drink milk to receive nutrition; however, one must always avoid any Tamasic food and only consume Vrat-friendly foods.
Muruga or Skanda is known as the God of War. It is believed that just as he defeated all the demons and liberated heaven, it helps a person fight against all his negativities and set triumph over them. This way, observing fast helps us get rid of the sins and cleanses our minds, so we become better at decision-making.
People on this day visit the temple of Lord Skanda, but due to the present situation, you can also worship the idol of Lord Skanda in your home.
Decorate the Muruga idol, his Vel (weapon), light a lamp, and offer incense sticks. Give food offerings to the idol, and listen to or chant Skanda ShastiKavacham or Skanda Purana.
Offering prasad or food offerings among poor people is always beneficial that helps you create good karma.
Chant mantras “Om Saravana BhavayaNamaha” or the “Om KumaarayaNamaha” to please Lord Muruga.
Dos and Don'ts on Shukla Shasti
· Visit Murua temple, and if not possible, worship his idol.
· Observe fast and wear red-colored clothes.
· Meditate to make your mind stable and devoted.
· Chant mantras to yield the immense blessing of Muruga.
· Always consume vegetarian or Satvik food.
· Do not consume alcohol or non-vegetarian food, and tamasic food like onion and garlic.
· Do not say harsh words to anyone; do not behave rude.
· Do not get angry; maintain your calm.
· Don't lie.
How planets help receive the blessings of the day
The Ashwina Shukla Shasti is on Wednesday, which associates with the planet Mercury. Presenting in its friendly sign Libra and Swati Nakshatra, the day is more auspicious this time. Since Mercury is about intellect and communicational skills, praying Lord Muruga on this day will strengthen our speech, so you get the desired results in the professional front as well as in personal life.
On this very day, the Moon is staying in Sagittarius and Jupiter in its own Moolatrikona sign. This union together forms the GajaKesariYog, which means the strength of the elephant and Lion together. So when we worship Muruga on this day when such Yog is formed, we become able to yield such benefits that bestow us with improved mental power. As a result, it blesses us with fame, fortune, courage, health, and wisdom.
Astropedia brings you fasting rules and the significance of all kinds of fastings. Visit Astropedia and get to know the right approach toward observing Vrats.
