Kartikeya Ji

Kartikeya Ji is regarded as one of the most valiant, radiant, and powerful deities in Hinduism. He is worshipped as the God of War, the commander of the divine army, and the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. In South India, he is especially famous by the names “Murugan,” “Skanda,” “Subrahmanya,” and “Shanmukha.” His life symbolizes courage, wisdom, discipline, and the protection of righteousness.

In ancient times, there was a mighty demon named Tarakasura. Through severe penance, he received a boon from Lord Brahma that he could only be defeated by the son of Lord Shiva. At that time, Lord Shiva was deeply absorbed in meditation and had become detached from the world after the loss of Goddess Sati. Therefore, Tarakasura believed that his end would never come.

Gradually, Tarakasura became tyrannical. He began troubling the gods, sages, and humans. Frightened, all the gods approached Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. It was then revealed that only the son of Lord Shiva could destroy Tarakasura.

After this, the gods prayed to Goddess Parvati. To attain Lord Shiva as her husband, Goddess Parvati performed intense penance. Pleased by her devotion and dedication, Lord Shiva married her. Some time later, a divine energy emerged from Lord Shiva, which was carried by Agni (the Fire God) and later by the sacred river Ganga. From this divine radiance, Kartikeya Ji was born.