Kumar Sashti 2026 will be observed on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The festival is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya (Skanda, Murugan, Subramanya or Kumar), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who is revered as the commander of the celestial army and the destroyer of evil.

Devotees observe a fast, perform special prayers and seek Lord Kartikeya's blessings for courage, protection, good health and the removal of obstacles.

Kumar Sashti 2026 Date and Timings

Timings are for Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (IST).

Significance of Kumar Sashti

According to Hindu tradition and the Skanda Purana, Kumar Sashti commemorates the appearance of Lord Kartikeya on Earth to destroy evil and restore righteousness. The festival is also known as Kumar Jayanti in several traditions.

Lord Kartikeya is worshipped under different names across India:

• Murugan (Tamil Nadu)

• Subramanya

• Skanda

• Kumar

Devotees believe that observing the Kumar Sashti Vrat helps:

• Remove negative influences from life

• Overcome obstacles and fears

• Gain strength, wisdom and courage

• Attain physical and spiritual well-being

• Fulfil sincere wishes through devotion

Kumar Sashti Puja Rituals

On this auspicious day, devotees:

• Wake up early and take a holy bath.

• Worship Lord Kartikeya with sandalwood paste, kumkum, flowers, incense and fruits.

• Offer prayers and perform aarti.

• Chant Skanda Shashti Kavacham, Subramanya Bhujangam or read the Subrahmanya Purana.

• Visit Lord Kartikeya or Murugan temples in the evening.

• Pray for protection from evil and blessings for prosperity and good health.

In some regions, devotees also decorate the entrance of their homes with traditional designs using cow dung and red clay.

Kumar Sashti Vrat Rules

Many devotees observe a strict fast throughout the day.

Common fasting practices include:

• Complete fast until evening temple darshan.

• One meal during the afternoon (followed by local tradition).

• One meal after evening prayers.

The fast is generally broken only after offering prayers to Lord Kartikeya.

Celebrations Across India

Kumar Sashti is celebrated with special devotion in:

• Tamil Nadu

• Karnataka

• Kerala

• Andhra Pradesh

• Telangana

• Maharashtra

• Nepal

In South India, Lord Murugan temples witness elaborate pujas, bhajans and large gatherings of devotees.