The Story Behind Kanda Shasti and the Power of Shatru Samhara Homam
In Hindu tradition, few festivals embody divine courage, faith, and victory over evil as profoundly as Kanda Shasti. Celebrated in honor of Lord Murugan (also known as Subramanya or Skanda), Kanda Shasti marks the triumph of divine forces over demonic negativity. This sacred period is deeply connected with the Shatru Samhara Homam, a powerful Vedic ritual performed to remove obstacles, neutralize negative energies, and seek protection from enemies — both seen and unseen.
In this blog, we explore the inspiring story behind Kanda Shasti and the spiritual strength of the Shatru Samhara Homam.
The Origin of Kanda Shasti
Kanda Shasti is observed during the Tamil month of Aippasi (October–November), beginning on the sixth day (Shasti tithi) following the new moon. According to ancient scriptures, it commemorates the epic battle between Lord Murugan and the demon Soorapadman.
The legend tells us that Soorapadman, after years of severe penance, was granted invincible powers by Lord Shiva. But his arrogance and tyranny soon spread fear across the heavens and the earth. Unable to bear his atrocities, the Devas (celestial beings) sought refuge in Lord Shiva, who created Murugan from his divine energy to restore balance and righteousness.
The Divine Battle of Kanda Shasti
Lord Murugan, armed with the Vel (divine spear) gifted by Goddess Parvati, set out to confront Soorapadman. The battle raged for six days and nights — symbolizing the six sacred faces (Arumugam) of Murugan and the six inner enemies of the soul:
- Lust (Kama),
- Anger (Krodha),
- Greed (Lobha),
- Delusion (Moha),
- Pride (Mada), and
- Jealousy (Matsarya).
On the sixth day, known as Soorasamharam, Lord Murugan destroyed Soorapadman, who then surrendered and was transformed into a divine vehicle — the peacock (Mayil) and the rooster (Seval), symbolizing complete surrender and transformation through divine grace.
The Spiritual Significance of Kanda Shasti
Kanda Shasti is not merely a celebration of victory; it is a spiritual journey of purification and devotion. Devotees observe fasting (Shasti viratham), chant Kanda Shasti Kavasam, and meditate upon Lord Murugan’s form.
Each of the six days signifies the cleansing of one of the six inner impurities, guiding devotees toward self-realization and inner strength. The festival ends with Soorasamharam, which symbolizes the destruction of negativity and the triumph of truth.
What is Shatru Samhara Homam?
The Shatru Samhara Homam is a sacred fire ritual (havan) dedicated to Lord Subramanya. The term “Shatru Samhara” literally means “destruction of enemies.” However, in the spiritual context, enemies are not just external adversaries — they also represent negative thoughts, jealousy, fear, and karmic obstacles that hinder one’s progress.
This homam is performed by invoking Lord Murugan’s energy through Vedic chants and sacred offerings into the fire (Agni), which acts as the divine messenger carrying prayers to the celestial realms.
The Purpose and Power of Shatru Samhara Homam
The Shatru Samhara Homam is a transformational ritual with immense protective and healing powers. It helps devotees:
- Remove negative energies and black magic influences
- Neutralize enemies or harmful intentions
- Overcome professional and personal obstacles
- Gain confidence and courage to face challenges
- Attain peace, success, and divine protection
When performed with devotion and faith, the homam is believed to invoke Lord Murugan’s fierce aspect, granting the devotee spiritual armor against all forms of harm and negativity.
The Procedure of Shatru Samhara Homam
The homam is traditionally conducted by qualified Vedic pandits or Hindu Shastrigals in temples or homes. The ritual involves:
- Sankalpam – Taking a divine vow or intention for the homam.
- Ganapati Puja – Invoking Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles.
- Kalasam Setup – Energizing water pots representing divine forces.
- Main Homam – Offering sacred items like ghee, flowers, and herbs into the fire while chanting the Shatru Samhara mantras.
- Poornahuti – The final and most powerful offering, symbolizing the devotee’s complete surrender to the divine.
The entire process is accompanied by Murugan mantras and slokas such as:
“Om Saravana Bhava” — a potent chant invoking the six divine energies of Lord Murugan.
Connection Between Kanda Shasti and Shatru Samhara Homam
Kanda Shasti is the most auspicious period to perform the Shatru Samhara Homam. The energy of Lord Murugan is at its peak during these six days, making it the ideal time for spiritual cleansing and protection rituals.
By observing Kanda Shasti and performing the Shatru Samhara Homam, devotees not only seek the destruction of external negativities, but also purify their inner consciousness, achieving mental peace and divine strength.
Benefits of Performing Shatru Samhara Homam During Kanda Shasti
- Removes enemies and negative influences
- Brings success in business, career, and personal life
- Protects from evil eyes and negative forces
- Improves mental clarity and confidence
- Blesses the devotee with peace, courage, and prosperity
Performing this homam under the guidance of learned Hindu Shastrigals ensures authenticity and maximized spiritual benefits.
How to Perform Shatru Samhara Homam Online
In today’s digital age, many devotees across the world, especially in the USA, UK, and Malaysia, perform online Shatru Samhara Homam through trusted Vedic service platforms like Shastrigal.com.
Through online homam services, you can:
- Book authentic Murugan Homam remotely
- Watch the live ritual via video stream
- Receive prasadam and blessings at home
This ensures that distance does not become a barrier to divine connection and protection.
The Kanda Shasti festival and the Shatru Samhara Homam together symbolize the eternal truth — that divine faith conquers darkness. As Lord Murugan vanquished Soorapadman, so can devotees overcome their challenges and inner enemies with devotion, discipline, and surrender.
Performing or witnessing the Shatru Samhara Homam during Kanda Shasti invokes immense blessings, inner peace, and divine strength, guiding one toward a victorious and harmonious life.