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| Tiruchendur Murugan temple, Tamil Nadu. www.bing.com |
Kandha Shasti Vratham is an annual festival of fasting and devotion dedicated to Lord Murugan, or Karthikeya, the revered Hindu god of valor and victory, widely worshipped in Tamil Nadu and parts of South India. The Vratham (fast) is observed during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October–November) and lasts for six days, beginning on the day of the waxing moon called “piratamai.” This period holds immense spiritual importance, as devotees believe that fasting cleanses both the body and mind, bringing them closer to Dharma (righteousness) and aligning their lives with divine principles. the tradition of fasting on certain days, particularly during festival days has been around for centuries as propounded by Hinduism. Among the Vaishnavites Vaikuntha Ekadashi and the events associated with the consort of Vishu, Andal are occasions to engage in fasting and meditation.
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| Tiruchendur Murugan temple, TN www.bing.com |
Fasting during Kandha Shasti Vratham is more than abstaining from food; it’s a rigorous spiritual practice meant to enhance self-control, mindfulness, and devotion. Devotees typically consume only one vegetarian meal a day, refraining from non-vegetarian food and alcohol. This simple diet, combined with daily rituals and abstention from indulgences, reinforces their focus on spirituality. The festival emphasizes celibacy, as maintaining chastity is considered essential to channeling one's energy toward devotion and introspection. Through these practices, devotees aim to purify themselves, dispelling negative thoughts and habits that cloud the mind.
The festival is marked by various acts of dedication. Every morning, devotees perform a pooja (prayer) after a ritual bath, symbolizing the cleansing of the body and soul. Many embark on long barefoot pilgrimages, walking distances of over 20 kilometers to Murugan temples, often enduring pain and exhaustion with steadfast resolve. These pilgrims, including people from diverse backgrounds, see the physical journey as an offering to Lord Murugan, believing it strengthens their willpower and commitment to endure hardships in life..
The significance of fasting and other observances lies in their power to cultivate inner discipline, humility, and resilience. In enduring these sacrifices, devotees feel a deeper connection with Lord Murugan, who symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The Vratham encourages a retreat from worldly distractions, guiding participants toward a path of inner peace and spiritual fulfillment. This powerful festival allows devotees to renew their faith, gain mental clarity, and commit to living in harmony with the values of compassion, devotion, and righteousness in their daily lives.
https://www.navrangindia.in/2023/11/tiruchendur-temple-tn-soorasamharam.html
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