Kanda Sashti Kavacham — Benefits & How to Chant
கந்த சஷ்டி கவசம்
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Kanda Sashti Kavacham
A supremely powerful Tamil protective hymn (kavacham)
invokes Lord Murugan's Vel to guard the devotee from head to foot.
Believed to drive away enemies, fear, disease, evil spirits, black magic, poison and every danger.
Its opening promises that for those who praise Murugan, bad karma and sorrow flee and prosperity and steadfastness grow.
Recited especially during Skanda Sashti (the six days ending in Murugan's victory over Surapadman) and on Tuesdays and Krittika nakshatra days.
Loved across Tamil Nadu and the Tamil diaspora; chanting it with devotion is held to bring Murugan's complete grace and protection.
How to Chant Kanda Sashti Kavacham
Instructions
Bathe and sit before an image of Lord Murugan with His Vel and peacock. Light a lamp and, if possible, keep the Skanda Sashti fast. Recite the Kavacham clearly and with devotion, feeling Murugan's Vel protecting each part of the body as the verses describe. Many recite it daily for protection, or 36 times during the six days of Skanda Sashti. Conclude with 'Vetri Vel! Veera Vel!'
Spiritual Significance
It is said in Tamil Nadu that no fear, disease or evil can stand before the one who recites the Kanda Sashti Kavacham with faith — for Murugan's Vel itself stands guard around him, as it once shattered the demon Surapadman.
Origin & History
Source: Tamil devotional hymn by Devaraya Swamigal (Bala Devarayan), c. 17th–19th century
Author: Devaraya Swamigal (Bala Devarayan)
The Kanda Sashti Kavacham was composed in praise of Lord Murugan of Tiruchendur, where the Lord won His great victory over the asura Surapadman on the sixth day (sashti) of the waxing moon of Aippasi. The hymn is the devotee's armour, calling upon Murugan's Vel to protect him as the Lord once protected the devas — and it is sung with greatest fervour during the Skanda Sashti festival.