Kanda Sashti Kavacham

Composed by Sri Devaraya Swamigal
Language: Tamil | Type: Protective Hymn (Kavacham)

About This Song

Kanda Sashti Kavacham is a powerful devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Murugan. The word "Kavacham" means armor or shield, and this hymn is believed to act as a spiritual armor that protects devotees from all kinds of negative influences, diseases, and dangers.

In this hymn, the author prays to Lord Murugan to shower His grace. It is believed that by regularly reciting this kavacham, all predicaments will be resolved, people without children will be blessed with offspring, and prosperity and plenty will abound in the homes of devotees. The kavacham is structured as a prayer requesting Lord Murugan to protect every part of the devotee's body with His divine Vel (spear).

Structure of the Kavacham

The Kanda Sashti Kavacham consists of several sections:

  1. Declaration of Purpose - States the benefits of chanting the kavacham
  2. Invocation - Calls upon Lord Murugan to come and protect the devotee
  3. Meditation on the Divine Form - Describes the magnificent form of Lord Murugan
  4. Protection Requests - Asks Lord Murugan to protect various parts of the body
  5. Protection from Negative Influences - Requests protection from spirits, black magic, etc.
  6. Protection from Diseases - Seeks relief from various ailments
  7. Praise of Lord Murugan - Glorifies the Lord by his various names and abodes

Key Verses with Translation

May karmic sufferings and worries cease Wealth and spirituality grow and Prayers be granted For those who chant this Kandhar Sashti Kavasam. Dedication to Lord Kumaran, who ended the woes of the Devas, On his lovely feet shall we meditate... He who fulfils the wishes of his devotees, Whose twinkling anklets produce melodious sounds He who approaches me in slow and graceful steps, The Rider of the peacock Come and protect me with your Vel Welcome to Thee, Lord of the Vel Welcome to Thee, O Rider of the peacock

Benefits of Reciting Kanda Sashti Kavacham

  • Removes obstacles and difficulties
  • Provides protection from negative energies
  • Cures diseases
  • Grants prosperity and abundance
  • Blesses childless couples with children
  • Brings peace and harmony

How to Recite

The kavacham is traditionally recited during the six days of Skanda Sashti festival, which celebrates Lord Murugan's victory over the demon Soorapadman. However, it can be recited daily for protection and blessings.

It is recommended to recite the kavacham with devotion and concentration, preferably in the morning after a bath or in the evening during prayer time. Many devotees recite it 6 times during the Skanda Sashti festival.

Listen to Kanda Sashti Kavacham

For an authentic experience, you can listen to this hymn performed by traditional singers:

Listen on YouTube

Note: External link to YouTube where you can listen to the authentic rendition of this hymn with English lyrics.