All You need to Know About Champa Shashti 2023
Champa Shashti is a festival celebrated on the sixth day of the Margashirsh month during the waxing phase of the moon. The day is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The date for Champa Shashti 2023 is December 18, Monday.
In Maharashtra, the day is notably significant at Khandoba Temple in Jejuri, near Pune. The temple is dedicated to Martand also known as Malhari or Khandoba or Khanderao. Lord Shiva took the form of Martand to destroy two demons named Mani and Malla.
In the Hindu calendar, Sasti, or Shashthi, is the sixth day of a lunar fortnight and is primarily dedicated to Lord Muruga or Subrahmanya.
Champa Shashti’s Story
According to legend, Mani and Malla, two demons, grew powerful by undergoing great Tapas (austerities) committed to Brahma. Brahma bestowed boons on them after a period of time. Mani and Malla began pestering demigods and mankind after gaining unimaginable power. They wreaked havoc on the calm lives of those on earth and in heaven.
The demons have taken over Manichurna Mountain, which was once the home of several Saints. Shiva was contacted by Rishis and demigods.
Shiva proceeded to Manichurna Mountain with other lieutenants from his matted locks to combat Mani and Malla. He assumed the form of Bhairav, Shiva’s horrific form, while Parvati assumed the form of Mhalsa. Mhalsa is thought to be an incarnation of Mohini and Parvati in some areas.
On the first day of Margashirsha, the battle began. For six days, Mani and Malla fought valiantly. They were finally killed when they fell on Shiva’s feet. This happened on Margashirsha’s sixth day, which is known as Chamba Shasti. After killingh the demons, Lord Shiva is said to have opted to reside here in the shape of a Swayambhu lingam.
Champa Shashti Puja and Mantra
The mantra to be chanted on the day is
ॐ मार्तंडाय मल्लहारी नमो नमः॥
It should be chanted 108 times in a Shiva temple.
Champa Shashti Puja Vidhi
•Shivling should be worshipped with water and bilva leaves.
• Use cow ghee to light the lamp during the day.
• In the puja, ithar, abir, and other fragrances should be used.
• Tagar flowers should be used for the day’s doop.
• The red rose is the most common flower offered.
• Sugar should be used to make bhog or prasad on the day.
Special Rituals Performed During Champa Shashti
- To gain relief from graha dosha in the horoscope, light nine lamps with til-ka-tel (sesame oil).
- In a Shiva temple, offer Kartikeya with a blue dress or fabric. Your social standing will rise as a result of this.
- On the day of the festival, give poor people brinjal and bajra. You will be free of all enemy-related issues.
