Maha Skanda Shasti Viratham 2025 – Dates, Significance, Fasting Methods
Skanda Shasti Viratham is one of the most important festivals dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This sacred observance symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is deeply rooted in devotion, discipline and prayer.
Every year, devotees of Lord Murugan observe this viratham with fasting, poojas and chanting, leading up to the grand event of Soora Samharam, the day when Lord Murugan defeated the demon Soorapadman with his divine spear (Vel).
Significance of Skanda Shasti
The festival is observed to honor Lord Murugan’s victory over asuras, restoring peace and dharma. Devotees believe that observing this viratham removes obstacles, brings protection from negativity and fulfills sincere prayers. Chanting Kanda Sashti Kavacham and visiting Murugan temples during this period is believed to bring immense spiritual blessings.
Dates of Skanda Shasti Viratham 2025
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48 day Viratham: September 10, 2025 – October 27, 2025
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6 day Viratham: October 22 – October 27, 2025
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1 day Viratham: October 27, 2025
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Skanda Shasti ends: October 27, 2025
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Soora Samharam (Victory Day): October 28, 2025
Devotees can choose to observe the full 48 days, the 6 days or even just the final day depending on their health condition and devotion.
Types of Viratham (Fasting Methods)
The viratham can be followed in different ways and devotees choose according to their health condition and devotion. Each form is considered powerful and it is believed that whatever you pray sincerely during Skanda Shasti will be granted by Lord Murugan.
1. Milagu Viratham (Pepper Fast)
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Only pepper is consumed.
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Strengthens the body, removes toxins and builds willpower.
2. Elaneer Viratham (Tender Coconut Fast)
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Devotees drink only tender coconut water.
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Keeps the body cool and helps maintain focus on prayer.
3. Paal Viratham (Milk Fast)
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Only milk is taken during the fasting period.
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Symbolizes purity and divine surrender.
4. Paal Pazham Viratham (Milk & Fruits Fast)
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Milk and fruits are consumed for sustenance.
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A balanced approach for those who wish to combine devotion with nourishment.
5. Oru Velai Sapadu Viratham (One Meal Fast)
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Only one simple vegetarian meal per day is eaten.
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The most commonly observed fast by many devotees.
What are the essentials for Skanda Shasti pooja?
During the viratham, devotees set up a clean altar with a Murugan statue or photo, light sacred lamps like the Om Vel Diya or Arumugam Diya, and offer flowers, incense, and fruits.
Daily prayers include chanting Kanda Sashti Kavacham and other Murugan hymns, followed by simple naivedyam (prasadam).
Using these sacred items from Pujalane.com helps create a devotional atmosphere and strengthens the spiritual connection during the vrat.
How the Viratham is observed
Devotees stay away from non-vegetarian food, alcohol and other indulgences. They perform daily poojas, chant Murugan hymns and visit temples. Special recitations include Kanda Sashti Kavacham and Subramanya Bhujangam. Some observe strict fasts with only water or fruit, while others follow the lighter versions.
Soora Samharam – The grand finale
The most awaited day of the festival is Soora Samharam, which will be celebrated on October 28, 2025. This marks the divine victory of Lord Murugan over the asura Surapadman.
In temples across Tamil Nadu and beyond, this battle is enacted with devotion and grandeur. The Lord’s victory reminds devotees that truth and righteousness will always triumph over evil.
Skanda Shasti Viratham is not just about fasting, it is a journey of devotion, discipline and surrender to Lord Murugan. Observing it with faith ensures His divine protection and blessings for you and your family.