The annual Soorasamharam festival is a revered event dedicated to Lord Murugan, celebrating his victory over the demon Surapadman. This year it will be celebrated on Thursday, November 7, 2024, known as the most important day of the six-day Skanda Sashti celebrations, Soorasamharam symbolises the triumph of good over evil and holds profound significance, especially among Tamil Hindus. Observed during the Karthika Masam, this festival is marked by elaborate rituals, prayers, and fasting, culminating in a grand re-enactment of Lord Murugan’s victory.
Soorasamharam 2024: Date and Time
| Event | Date and Time |
| Skanda Shashthi | Thursday, November 7, 2024 |
| Kanda Shasti Vratam Begins | Saturday, November 2, 2024 |
| Subrahmanya Shasti | Friday, December 6, 2024 |
| Shasti Tithi Begins | 12:41 AM on Nov 07, 2024 |
| Shasti Tithi Ends | 12:34 AM on Nov 08, 2024 |
Skanda Sashti, also called Kanda Sashti, is an annual festival celebrated predominantly by Tamil Hindus to honour Lord Murugan, the warrior deity known for his courage, compassion, and commitment to defeating evil. The festival takes place over six days, with devotees observing a strict fast from the first day, called Pirathamai, until the sixth day, known as Soorasamharam. This sacred period is a time of devotion and reflection, during which followers seek Lord Murugan’s blessings for protection, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment.
Soorasamharam 2024: Significance
The climax of Skanda Sashti, Soorasamharam, is observed on the sixth day, marking the day when Lord Murugan defeated the demon Surapadman. According to legend, this victory symbolises the destruction of darkness and evil forces, restoring peace and righteousness. Every year, Soorasamharam is celebrated with great devotion to honour this divine act of valor and the ultimate triumph of dharma (righteousness).
In temples and communities, elaborate rituals and re-enactments of the battle between Lord Murugan and Surapadman bring the legend to life. Devotees believe that observing Soorasamharam cleanses them of their sins, purifies their minds, and brings divine blessings.
Soorasamharam 2024: Rituals and Celebrations
Devotees observe several rituals during Skanda Sashti, especially on the final day of Soorasamharam:
- Fasting – Throughout the six days of Skanda Sashti, devotees observe a strict fast, abstaining from certain foods or even refraining from food entirely during daylight hours. This act of devotion is believed to cleanse the body and mind, strengthening the connection with Lord Murugan.
- Temple Visits and Prayers – Devotees visit Murugan temples, offering flowers, fruits, and prayers. The atmosphere in temples is charged with devotion, with recitations of Murugan hymns, mantras, and devotional songs.
- Re-enactment of the Battle – In many temples, especially at the Thiruchendur Murugan Temple, a dramatic re-enactment of the legendary battle between Lord Murugan and Surapadman is staged. Devotees witness this performance with reverence, reliving the victory of good over evil.
- Thiru Kalyanam (Divine Marriage) – The day following Soorasamharam is celebrated as Thiru Kalyanam, symbolising the divine marriage of Lord Murugan. This ceremony represents harmony, peace, and the fulfilment of Lord Murugan’s mission on earth.
While Soorasamharam is celebrated in many Murugan temples, the festivities at Thiruchendur Murugan Temple in Tamil Nadu are particularly renowned. This coastal temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan (Aarupadai Veedu) and is believed to be the site where the actual battle with Surapadman took place. Each year, thousands of devotees gather at Thiruchendur to participate in the six-day festival, culminating in the grand Soorasamharam celebration. The festival at this temple is marked by vibrant processions, traditional music, and rituals that evoke a deep sense of devotion among the attendees.
Soorasamharam is more than a religious festival; it is a reminder of the eternal battle between light and darkness, good and evil. By observing Soorasamharam, devotees honour Lord Murugan’s valor and his commitment to protecting the world from harm. For the faithful, this day is an opportunity to seek strength, courage, and blessings to overcome personal challenges, guided by the divine warrior, Lord Murugan.
This festival not only unites devotees in reverence but also strengthens cultural and spiritual ties, allowing them to embrace the principles of dharma. As they celebrate Soorasamharam in 2024, devotees worldwide will renew their dedication to a life of righteousness, inspired by Lord Murugan’s victory.
Also Read | Sri Murugan Thirukalyanam 2024: Date, Rituals and Significance
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