Shasti (Shashthi) in July 2026 will be observed on Sunday, July 19. The day is dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya, Skanda, Subramanya) and is considered highly auspicious, especially among devotees in South India. Observing the Shasti Vrat is believed to bring courage, prosperity, good health and protection from negative influences.

Shasti 2026 Date and Timings

Timings are for Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (IST).

What is Shasti?

Shasti, also known as Shashthi, falls on the sixth lunar day (Tithi) of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases of every Hindu lunar month. The Krishna Paksha Shasti is particularly associated with the worship of Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Lord Murugan is also worshipped as:

• Kartikeya

• Skanda

• Subramanya

• Kumara Swami

• Kumaran

Significance of Shasti

According to Hindu tradition, Lord Murugan is the commander of the celestial army and the destroyer of evil. It is believed that on Shasti, Lord Murugan defeated the demon Soorapadman, symbolizing the victory of righteousness over evil.

Devotees observe the Shasti fast to seek:

• Good health and prosperity

• Success in life

• Courage and wisdom

• Protection from obstacles and negative influences

• Spiritual growth and inner peace

The festival holds special significance in Tamil Nadu, where several ancient temples dedicated to Lord Murugan witness special prayers and large gatherings.

Shasti Vrat Rules

Fasting is the most important ritual of Shasti. Devotees may observe the vrat in different ways:

• Complete fast: No food for 24 hours, ending after prayers the next day.

• Partial fast: Fruits and milk may be consumed.

• One-meal fast: Some devotees eat only one simple vegetarian meal due to health or personal reasons.

During the vrat:

• Non-vegetarian food is strictly avoided.

• Alcohol and intoxicants are prohibited.

• Many devotees avoid strong spices and consume only sattvic food.

Puja Rituals

On Shasti, devotees:

• Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath.

• Offer flowers, fruits, sandalwood paste, kumkum and incense to Lord Murugan.

• Chant Skanda Shasti Kavacham and read the Skanda Purana.

• Visit a Murugan or Kartikeya temple in the evening.

• Perform aarti and seek blessings for happiness, prosperity and protection.

All Shasti Dates in 2026