Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, Skanda, and Subrahmanya, is the son of Shiva and Parvati and the brother of Ganesha. He is the commander of the celestial armies and a prominent deity in South India, especially Tamil Nadu, where he is revered as the embodiment of youth, valor, wisdom, and the patron of the Tamil language. His primary weapon is the Vel (spear), symbolizing spiritual discrimination and victory over ignorance. The Skanda Purana, one of the major Puranas, extensively narrates his birth and exploits, including his leadership of the divine forces against the demon Tarakasura. In Tamil tradition, the Kanda Puranam, a 14th-century Tamil adaptation by Kachiyappa Sivachariyar, elaborates on these stories and is recited during the festival of Skanda Shasti. Murugan's iconography typically depicts him with six faces (Shanmukha) or one face, riding a peacock, and holding the Vel. The six faces represent the six directions and his omniscience. His beej mantra, "Skanda" or "Saravanabhava," is chanted for protection and courage. The Subrahmanya Gayatri, as found in the Mantra Mahodadhi, is a powerful mantra for wisdom and spiritual growth: "Om Tat Purushaya Vidmahe Maha Senaya Dhimahi Tanno Skanda Prachodayat." Traditional purposes of worship include seeking victory in endeavors, removal of obstacles, and attainment of spiritual knowledge. Chanting is recommended during the early morning, especially on Tuesdays and during the six-day Skanda Shasti festival. The Kanda Shasti Kavasam, a devotional hymn, is recited for protection and blessings. Cautions: Mantras should be chanted with proper pronunciation and devotion; initiation from a guru is advised for advanced practices. Murugan is also associated with the planet Mars (Mangala) in Vedic astrology, and his worship is believed to mitigate malefic effects of Mars.
Six-faced (Shanmukha) or one-faced, riding peacock, holding Vel (spear). Youthful, warrior-like appearance. Sometimes depicted with two consorts Valli and Devasena.