Shashti Viratham is a significant fasting day dedicated to Lord Murugan, observed every month on the sixth day (Shashti) of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha). Devotees observe strict fasting, perform special pujas, chant Murugan mantras, and visit temples to seek divine blessings for courage, success, and spiritual growth. Among all Shashti observances, Skanda Shashti, which falls in the Tamil month of Aippasi, holds great importance, commemorating Lord Murugan’s victory over the demon Surapadman. Observing Shashti Viratham is believed to remove obstacles, bring prosperity, and grant divine protection.
In 2026, devotees can follow the monthly Shashti dates to plan their fasting and temple visits. Many famous Murugan temples, including Arupadai Veedu shrines like Palani, Tiruchendur, and Swamimalai, conduct grand celebrations, abhishekams, and kavadi processions on these auspicious days. Fasting on Shashti is said to purify the body and mind, strengthen devotion, and fulfill wishes. Check the complete list of Shashti Viratham dates in 2026 to observe this sacred vrat and receive Lord Murugan’s divine blessings.
| Shashti Dates 2026 | ||||
| Date | Day | Start Time | Ends Time | Sashti |
| January 24, 2026 | Saturday | 01:46Â AM | 12:39Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| February 22, 2026 | Sunday | 11:09Â AM | 09:09Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| March 24, 2026 | Tuesday | 06:38Â PM | 04:07Â PM | Skanda Sashti |
| April 22, 2026 | Wednesday | 01:19Â AM | 10:49Â PM | Skanda Sashti |
| May 21, 2026 | Thursday | 08:26Â AM | 06:24Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| June 19, 2026 | Friday | 04:59Â PM | 03:46Â PM | Skanda Sashti |
| July 19, 2026 | Sunday | 03:42Â AM | 03:29Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| August 17, 2026 | Monday | 05:00Â PM | 05:50Â PM | Skanda Sashti |
| September 16, 2026 | Wednesday | 08:59Â AM | 10:47Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| October 16, 2026 | Friday | 03:25Â AM | 05:54Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| November 15, 2026 | Sunday | 11:23Â PM | 02:00Â AM | Skanda Sashti |
| December 15, 2026 | Tuesday | 07:15Â PM | 09:19Â PM | Skanda Sashti |