Champa Shashti 2021: Story, Mantra and Pujan Vidhi

The day is of great significance in Maharashtra especially at Khandoba Temple at 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.

Sasti, or Shashthi, is the sixth day in a lunar fortnight in Hindu calendar and is mainly dedicated to Lord Muruga or Subrahmanya.

Story of Champa Shashti

Legend has it that two demons named Mani and Malla became powerful by performing intense Tapas (austerities) dedicated to Brahma. After several years Brahma gave them boons. With unimaginable power at their disposal, Mani and Malla started harassing demigods and humans. They created havoc and disturbed the peaceful life on earth and heaven.

Manichurna Mountain the abode of several Saints was taken over by the demons. Rishis and demigods approached Shiva.

Shiva brought out several lieutenants from his matted lock to fight Mani and Malla and went to Manichurna Mountain. He himself took the form of Bhairav, the terrible form of Shiva and Parvati took the form of Mhalsa. In some regions, Mhalsa is believed to be an incarnation of Mohini and Parvati.

The battle began on the first day of Margashirsha. Mani and Malla fought hard for six days. Finally, they fell on the feet of Shiva and they were killed. This happened on the sixth day of Margashirsha and is observed as Chamba Shasti. It is believed Lord Shiva decided to stay here in the form of a Swayambhu lingam after defeating the demons.

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. 

How To Do Champa Shashti Puja?

• Shivling should be worshipped with water and bilva leaves.
• Lamp on the day should be lit using cow ghee.
• Ithar, abir, and other fragrance should be using in the puja.
• Doop on the day should be of Tagar flowers
• The main flower offering is red color rose.
• Bhog or prasad on the day should be made using sugar.