Shashthi Vrata
The Shashthi Vrata (Sanskrit: षष्ठीव्रत, romanized: Ṣaṣṭhīvrata) is a Hindu fasting observance dedicated to Kartikeya. It is primarily observed by South Indian Hindus during the month of Ashvin. The fasting is observed for six days starting from the first day after Amavasya (new moon). It ends on the day of Shashthi tithi with the commemoration of Surasamharam.
| Part of a series on |
| Kaumaram |
|---|
 |
 Hinduism portal |
Observance
[edit]The Hindu vrata (fasting) is observed during the month of Ashvin. The fasting is observed for six days starting from the first day after the Diwali Amavasya (new moon), and ends on the day of Shashthi tithi. Surasamharam marks the end of the observance.[1] Shashthi Vrata is also prescribed for the worship of Surya in some texts.[2]
Mythology
[edit]According to Tamil mythology, Kartikeya is stated to have performed a yajna for six consecutive days during the month to be blessed by his father Shiva before going to war with the demon Surapadman, making the practice auspicious.[3] Soorasamharam marks the event in which Kartikeya defeated the demon Surapadman.[4]
Practices
[edit]As per Kanda Puranam, one must bathe early on all six days of this occasion, fast for six days continuously, and worship Kartikeya as prescribed.[5] Prayers are made to Ganesha to invoke his blessings before the fast.[3] A puja is performed, venerating the image of Kartikeya, a kalasha, and Agni. Modaks and other offerings are presented to the deity.[5] Various mantras are chanted during the observance.[3] After the period of fasting, special pujas are prescribed, and Brahmins are invited and fed. These practices are described as means to allow the performer to achieve a higher status.[5]
References
[edit]- ^ The Contributions of the Tamils to Indian Culture: Socio-cultural aspects. International Institute of Tamil Studies. 1994. p. 153.
- ^ Raheja, Gloria Goodwin (15 September 1988). The Poison in the Gift: Ritual, Prestation, and the Dominant Caste in a North Indian Village. University of Chicago Press. p. 79. ISBN 978-0-226-70729-7.
- ^ a b c "கந்த சஷ்டி விரதம் இருப்பது எப்படி?". Dinamalar. Retrieved 8 June 2017.
- ^ The Contributions of the Tamils to Indian Culture: Socio-cultural aspects. International Institute of Tamil Studies. 1994. p. 153.
- ^ a b c Civarāman̲, Akilā (2006). sri kandha puranam (english). GIRI Trading. p. 411. ISBN 978-81-7950-397-3.