കേരളത്തിലെ ക്ഷേത്രങ്ങളിൽ നടക്കുന്ന ഷഷ്ഠി പൂജ, കുഞ്ഞിന്റെ ജനനത്തിന് ആറാം ദിവസം ദേവി ഷഷ്ഠിയെ സമർപ്പിച്ച് കുഞ്ഞിന്റെ സംരക്ഷണം, ആരോഗ്യം, സമൃദ്ധമായ ജീവിതം എന്നിവയ്ക്കായി ദിവ്യാശീർവാദം തേടുന്ന ഒരു പവിത്രമായ ആചാരമാണ്.
Shashti Pooja
Shashti Pooja is a deeply revered spiritual observance performed in many temples across Kerala dedicated to the divine motherly energy of Goddess Shashti, who is believed to be the protector and nurturer of all children. This sacred ritual holds a significant place in Hindu tradition, especially in matters related to childbirth, child welfare, and family prosperity. It is widely observed on the sixth day after the birth of a child as this day is considered highly auspicious for invoking divine protection and blessings.
According to traditional beliefs, Goddess Shashti is a compassionate deity who safeguards newborns from negative influences and ensures their healthy growth. In Kerala temple customs, devotees gather to perform prayers, offerings and devotional chanting to seek her grace. The rituals often include Ganapathi worship, Deeparadhana, Shashti Devi stuti chanting, and special offerings for the newborn’s well being. These practices are carried out with deep devotion and purity reflecting the cultural richness of Kerala’s temple traditions.
A popular belief associated with Shashti Pooja is that the goddess not only protects children but also determines their destiny, including their lifespan, health, and fortune. Families participating in this ritual express their gratitude and surrender their child’s future to the divine motherly power of Goddess Shashti. Temples in Kerala create a spiritually charged atmosphere during such observances where devotees experience peace, positivity and emotional fulfillment.
Beyond its religious importance, Shashti Pooja also reflects the strong cultural values of family care, motherhood and spiritual protection deeply rooted in Kerala’s temple heritage. It continues to be an important ritual that connects faith, tradition and devotion bringing families together in prayer for the well being and prosperity of their children.
EVENTS / PROGRAMS
• Ganapathi Pooja & Auspicious Beginning Rituals
• Shashti Devi Invocation & Sacred Prayer Offerings
• Special Deeparadhana with Traditional Lamp Lighting
• Shashti Devi Stuti & Sahasranama Chanting
• Devotional Bhajans & Temple Worship Activities
• Newborn Blessing Ritual & Family Prayer Offering
• Symbolic Rituals for Child Protection & Prosperity
• Special Abhishekam & Floral Alankaram for Goddess Shashti
