Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham 2022 Dates Timings And Rituals

Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham is one of the most revered Hindu observances dedicated to Lord Murugan at the famed Arulmigu Subramania Swamy Temple, Tiruchendur in Tamil Nadu, India. This six-day sacred festival — a form of Shashthi Vrata — begins with fasting and culminates in the powerful Soorasamharam ceremony celebrating the victory of Lord Murugan over the demon Surapadman, marking triumph of good over evil.

What Is Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham?

Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham is a devotional observance where devotees observe fasts, perform rituals, and attend special temple ceremonies over six days centered on the Skanda Sashti lunar tithi (sixth day). The festival is rooted in Hindu mythology as Surasamharam — Lord Murugan’s cosmic victory over the asuras — and is celebrated most prominently at the coastal Murugan temple in Tiruchendur, known as one of the six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu).

Exact 2022 Dates And Ritual Timings

For 2022, the temple observed the Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham with the following key dates and events:

This structured timetable helped millions of devotees plan their observances and temple visits during the festival.

Detailed Rituals And Practices

1. Fasting Rules

Devotees follow the six-day Skanda Sashti Viratham by observing fasting from the first day of the festival. Traditionally, fasting includes consuming simple sattvic foods and refraining from grains or heavy meals. The strictest observance is often on the sixth day (Sashti), when some devotees fast without any food until the Soorasamharam ceremony is completed.

2. Daily Poojas And Temple Ceremonies

Each day involves temple rituals including:

• Morning Viswaroopa Darshanam and Abishekam
• Yagasalai Poojas to invoke divine blessings
• Evening Deepaaradhana and special rituals dedicated to Lord Murugan

These ceremonies are performed in accordance with temple traditions and timed with auspicious nakshatras and tithis.

3. Soorasamharam: The Highlight

The climactic Soorasamharam ritual on October 30, 2022 occurred around 4:30 PM, where priests enact Murugan’s defeat of Surapadman near the seashore temple precinct. This public spectacle draws crowds thousands strong and is considered spiritually uplifting and purifying.

Temple Timings During The Festival

During Skanda Sashti and other major festivals, the temple alters its timetables to accommodate devotees. According to the temple’s official notices, normal opening hours for Tiruchendur Murugan Temple are:

• 04:00 AM to 12:00 PM IST
• 12:00 PM to 09:00 PM IST

But during festival events like Sashti and Soorasamharam, doors may open earlier (as early as 01:00 AM) and remain extended to evening for special rituals.

My Personal Experience At Tiruchendur During Skanda Sashti

When I visited Tiruchendur for Skanda Sashti Viratham, the air was thick with devotion. Pilgrims had arrived days before the Soorasamharam, setting up mats and performing continual prayers near the sea. What surprised me was how organized the temple authorities were: schedules were displayed clearly, and volunteers guided crowds with ease. I personally recommend arriving at least a day before the Soorasamharam to secure a good viewing spot for the evening rituals.

Tips For Devotees Observing Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham

• Plan accommodation near Tiruchendur town early, as festivals attract large crowds.
• Carry water and light sattvic snacks if you plan multi-day fasting.
• Verify the temple’s official announcement for exact timings each year — they may change slightly based on astronomical calculations.
• Respect local customs and dress codes within the temple premises.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Assuming fixed dates every year — the Siddhanta changes as per lunar calendar, so dates shift annually.
• Arriving late for Soorasamharam — the event draws large crowds and areas near the temple fill up quickly.
• Starting the fast without planning meals — fasting requires preparation to ensure health and piety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When Did Tiruchendur Skanda Sashti Viratham Occur In 2022?

The festival began on October 25, 2022, with the main Soorasamharam ritual taking place on October 30, 2022 at around 4:30 PM IST.

What Is Soorasamharam?

Soorasamharam is the ritual reenactment of Lord Murugan defeating the demon Surapadman, signifying victory of righteousness. It is the culminating event of the six-day Skanda Sashti festival.

Do Devotees Need To Fast For All Six Days?

While many devotees observe fasting across all six days, some may choose to fast strictly only on the Sashti day. The choice often depends on one’s health, traditions, and personal vows.

Does The Temple Change Its Timings During The Festival?

Yes. During festivals such as Skanda Sashti, temple opening times may begin much earlier and continue longer than regular days. Check official notices for exact timings.