Champa Shashti: A Sacred Festival Dedicated to Lord Khandoba

Champa Shashti is an important and auspicious festival celebrated primarily in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The day is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, who is revered in the form of Lord Khandoba—a fierce and powerful manifestation of the deity. Observed with great devotion and enthusiasm, this festival holds deep religious significance and is celebrated to honor the victory of Lord Khandoba over the demons Malla and Mani.

The Significance of Champa Shashti

Champa Shashti marks the victory of Lord Khandoba over the two demons, Malla and Mani, who had terrorized people in ancient times. The story behind this festival is deeply rooted in mythological beliefs. According to the legend, Lord Khandoba, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, waged a fierce battle against the demon brothers. The battle lasted for six days, with Lord Khandoba emerging victorious.

As a result of this victory, Champa Shashti is celebrated as a day of triumph for Lord Shiva, who is revered as the protector of devotees. Devotees celebrate this festival to express their gratitude for Lord Khandoba’s blessings and protection.

Lord Khandoba: The Warrior Lord and Protector

Lord Khandoba is one of the most revered deities in Maharashtra and Karnataka, often depicted as a warrior and the Lord of Hunters. His devotees worship him for protection from evil forces and to seek his blessings for prosperity. He is believed to have saved people from various calamities, especially from demonic influences.

A significant part of the worship of Lord Khandoba is linked to the famous temple in Jejuri, located near Pune, Maharashtra. The temple is a major pilgrimage site where thousands of devotees visit during Champa Shashti to offer their prayers and seek blessings.

The Mythological Story of Lord Khandoba’s Victory

The legend behind Champa Shashti revolves around a fierce battle between Lord Khandoba and the demon brothers Malla and Mani. In this myth, the demons had caused widespread havoc in the world. To protect the people, Lord Shiva manifested in the form of Lord Khandoba, who was covered with turmeric and shone like gold.

After a fierce six-day battle, Mani, the younger of the demon brothers, accepted defeat and sought forgiveness from Lord Khandoba. The Lord, in his infinite mercy, granted him a boon. Mani requested to remain in the service of Lord Khandoba forever. His wish was granted, and from that day on, Mani is said to be enshrined alongside Lord Khandoba in the temples. This event is believed to have taken place on Champa Shashti, which is why the day is celebrated with great fervor.

Celebrating Champa Shashti: Rituals and Traditions

The celebrations of Champa Shashti are rich in rituals and customs, most of which are centered around devotion to Lord Khandoba. Below are some of the key rituals observed during the festival:

1. Early Morning Rituals

The day begins with devotees waking up early in the morning and taking a ritual bath. This is considered an important purification step before the worship of Lord Khandoba.

2. Duration of the Festival

Champa Shashti begins on the day of Amavasya (the new moon) and culminates on the sixth day, which is celebrated as Champa Shashti.

3. Offering Prayers and Offerings

During the festival, devotees offer various offerings to Lord Khandoba, including vegetables, fruits, apple leaves, and turmeric powder. These offerings are made with great devotion as a mark of reverence.

4. Visiting Temples

Many devotees make it a point to visit Lord Khandoba’s temple, especially the one in Jejuri, during the six days of celebration. The temple is thronged by people who offer prayers, light lamps, and seek blessings.

5. Lighting Lamps

It is customary to light a lamp or diya with oil every day for six consecutive days in front of the idol of Lord Khandoba. The lighting of the lamp symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

6. Prasad Offerings

On the sixth and final day of Champa Shashti, devotees offer a variety of special prasad (food offerings) to Lord Khandoba. Some of the most common prasad items include:

•Thombara: A traditional offering made from multi-grain flour.

•Rigada: A wheat-based delicacy.

Bhandara: A mixture of turmeric powder, often prepared as a ritual offering.

These offerings are distributed among the devotees, who partake in them as blessings from Lord Khandoba.

7. Performing Aarti

To conclude the rituals, devotees gather to perform the Aarti (a devotional song) in praise of Lord Khandoba. The Aarti is an important part of the puja and marks the conclusion of the day’s worship.

The Spiritual Benefits of Champa Shashti

Devotees believe that observing the rituals and fasting during Champa Shashti brings immense spiritual benefits. It is believed that anyone who follows the fasting and worship rituals on this day will be absolved of their past sins and will lead a prosperous and peaceful life. The festival is seen as a way to purify oneself and seek divine blessings for a better future.

Conclusion

Champa Shashti is not just a festival of religious significance, but also a day of victory and redemption. It celebrates the power and grace of Lord Khandoba, who protects his devotees from evil forces. Observing the rituals and offering prayers on this day is believed to bring about a positive change in one’s life, ensuring peace, happiness, and prosperity. Whether in the temples of Maharashtra and Karnataka or in homes across India, Champa Shashti remains a sacred occasion for worship, devotion, and gratitude toward Lord Khandoba.