Shasti, also known as Shashthi, will be observed on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, with devotees of Lord Murugan observing fasts and offering prayers for prosperity, protection and spiritual well-being. The Hindu observance is particularly significant among Tamil communities and is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, Skanda and Subramanya.

According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Shasti falls on the sixth day of each lunar fortnight. It therefore occurs twice every month — once during the waxing phase of the Moon and once during the waning phase. The Shasti observed during the Krishna Paksha is particularly associated with Lord Murugan.

Shashthi Tithi Timing

As per the timings provided for Ujjain, the Shashthi Tithi will begin at 5:00 PM on August 17 and end at 5:51 PM on August 18.

The key timings for August 18 are:

Sunrise: 6:08 AM
Sunset: 6:53 PM
Moonrise: 11:12 AM
Moonset: 10:26 PM
Shashthi Tithi: August 17, 5:00 PM to August 18, 5:51 PM

The timings can vary depending on the location, so devotees following local Panchang calculations should check the timings applicable to their city.

Why Shasti Is Important

Shasti is considered an important day for devotees of Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. In Hindu tradition, Murugan is regarded as the commander of the divine army and is worshipped as a symbol of courage, strength and victory.

He is known by several names, including Kartikeya, Subramanya, Skanda, Kumara Swami and Kumaran. Worship of Lord Murugan is particularly prominent in Tamil Nadu and among Tamil communities in other parts of India and abroad.

According to Hindu belief, devotees who observe the Shasti fast and offer prayers to Lord Murugan seek his blessings for happiness, prosperity and protection.

Fasting Rules for Devotees

Fasting is one of the main practices associated with Shasti. Devotees may observe either a complete fast or a partial fast depending on their health and personal religious practice.

Those following a strict fast may abstain from food for the prescribed period, while others may consume fruits or have a single meal during the day.

Certain foods are traditionally avoided during the observance. Devotees generally refrain from non-vegetarian food and alcohol, while some traditions also restrict the use of particular spices.

People with health conditions are generally advised not to undertake prolonged fasting without appropriate medical guidance.

Prayers and Temple Visits

Devotees commonly begin the Shasti vrat around sunrise with prayers and continue religious observances during the day. Visiting a Lord Murugan temple in the evening is considered particularly auspicious.

Devotees may also read portions of the Skanda Purana and recite the Skanda Shasti Kavacham as part of their prayers.

The fast is traditionally concluded with prayers and the prescribed rituals, depending on the customs followed by the family or community.

Connection With Soorapadman

Shasti also has an important place in Hindu mythology. According to traditional accounts, Lord Murugan defeated the demon Soorapadman, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

The story is particularly important in Tamil religious traditions, where Lord Murugan has a prominent place in devotional practices.

Tamil Nadu is home to six major temples traditionally regarded as the Arupadai Veedu, or six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan. These shrines attract large numbers of devotees throughout the year, particularly during important Murugan festivals and observances.

Spiritual Significance of Shasti

For devotees, Shasti is not limited to fasting. The observance is also associated with discipline, devotion and self-control. Prayers to Lord Murugan are traditionally offered with the belief that they can provide strength to overcome difficulties and obstacles.

As Shasti 2026 approaches, devotees are expected to observe the day through fasting, temple visits, prayers and recitation of traditional hymns dedicated to Lord Murugan.