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 | 01:46 AM | 12:39 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| February 22, 2026 | Sunday | 11:09 AM | 09:09 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| March 24, 2026 | Tuesday | 06:38 PM | 04:07 PM | Skanda Sashti |
| April 22, 2026 | Wednesday | 01:19 AM | 10:49 PM | Skanda Sashti |
| May 21, 2026 | Thursday | 08:26 AM | 06:24 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| June 19, 2026 | Friday | 04:59 PM | 03:46 PM | Skanda Sashti |
| July 19, 2026 | Sunday | 03:42 AM | 03:29 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| August 17, 2026 | Monday | 05:00 PM | 05:50 PM | Skanda Sashti |
| September 16, 2026 | Wednesday | 08:59 AM | 10:47 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| October 16, 2026 | Friday | 03:25 AM | 05:54 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| November 15, 2026 | Sunday | 11:23 PM | 02:00 AM | Skanda Sashti |
| December 15, 2026 | Tuesday | 07:15 PM | 09:19 PM | Skanda Sashti |