Sashti is one of the most important and auspicious days for the Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Muruga. Sashti means the Sixth Day. Sashti Vratham is a bi-monthly occurrence that is observed on the sixth day of each lunar fortnight. On this day, people observe partial or full fast to appease Lord Muruga. Of all the Shashti Vratham, the Kanda Sashti Vratham that falls on the sixth day of the new Moon phase of the lunar month of Aippasi (Aswin) occurring between months of October- November is considered to be more important and auspicious.