According to the ancient scriptures, specifically the Skanda Purana, the demons under the leadership of Surapadman, Simhamukha, and Tarakasura took control of the Earth and started spreading Adharma which threatened the cosmic order. In response, Lord Murugan, the valiant son of Shiva and Parvati, assumed leadership of the Devas and embarked on a six-day battle against the oppressive forces. Armed with his divine lance, the Vel, Murugan waged a fierce and determined struggle, ultimately triumphing over Surapadman and the rest of his clan. This victory marked the defeat of Adharma, the restoration of righteousness, and the establishment of cosmic balance. The divine confrontation serves as a timeless tale of courage, devotion, and the indomitable spirit of good prevailing against seemingly insurmountable odds. Murugan’s Vel, a symbol of divine power, became the instrument through which righteousness was reinstated, and the forces of chaos were subdued. As devotees partake in the festivities of Soorasamharam, they not only celebrate the historical victory but also reflect on the broader significance — the eternal battle between right and wrong, light and darkness. The festival becomes a spiritual journey, emphasizing the enduring message of hope, resilience, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness in the face of adversity.The 2023 Soorasamharam falls on Saturday, November 18.
Soorasamharam: Defeat of Adharma at the hands of Lord Muruga

Soorasamharam is a sacred festival observed during the auspicious Hindu month of ‘Karthika’, which corresponds to October-November in the Gregorian calendar. Soorasamharam is the celebration of Lord Murugan’s triumph over the formidable demon Surapadman and the Asura clan. This significant event unfolds over six days, culminating in the eponymous festival, which symbolizes the ultimate victory of good over evil.
Soorasamharam rituals and observance
During the six-day observance leading up to Soorasamharam, devout followers of Lord Murugan engage in strict fasting that showcases their commitment and discipline toward purifying the mind and body. This abstention from regular meals is not merely a physical act but a symbolic gesture of self-control and dedication to the divine cause.
As the festival reaches its zenith on the final day with Soorasamharam, temples come alive with the resonance of special rituals that echo the spiritual significance of the occasion. These sacred ceremonies are orchestrated to honor Lord Murugan’s valor and his victory over evil. The air is filled with the fragrance of incense, and the atmosphere is charged with devotional fervor as priests perform ‘Abhishekam,’ a ceremonial hydration of the deity. This ritual symbolizes the cleansing and invigoration of the divine presence, fostering a deeper connection between the worshippers and the sacred.
‘Shringar Darshan,’ another integral facet of the festivities, unfolds as followers are treated to the spectacle of the adorned deity. Lord Murugan, bedecked in resplendent attire and adorned with divine ornaments, becomes the focal point of reverence. This visual feast is not merely a display of opulence but a symbolic representation of the deity’s grace and magnificence, evoking a sense of awe and reverence among the faithful.
Among the temples that stand out in hosting these grand festivities is the Tiruchendur Murugan temple. Here, the celebration takes on a grand scale, attracting devotees from far and wide. The temple becomes a vibrant hub of religious fervor, with processions, chants, and rituals creating an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy.
In essence, the elaborate rituals and festivities surrounding Soorasamharam serve as a collective expression of devotion, a communal reaffirmation of faith, and a poignant reminder of the enduring power of good over evil in the hearts and minds of the worshippers.