Lord Kartikeya

Bhagwan Kartikeya, also known as Skanda, Murugan, Subrahmanya or Kumara, is the dynamic son of Bhagwan Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Revered as the commander of the divine forces, he symbolizes youthful valor, supreme wisdom and spiritual perfection. Worshipped primarily in South India and by devotees worldwide, Bhagwan Kartikeya embodies strength, courage and discipline, making him the ideal deity for those seeking protection, mental clarity and victory in life. He is often depicted as a radiant warrior holding a divine spear (Vel) and riding a peacock, signifying the conquest of ego and desire. His worship awakens the inner warrior, sharpens intellect and destroys negativity, leading the devotee toward a path of righteousness, success and self-mastery.

Who is Bhagwan Kartikeya?

Bhagwan Kartikeya is a prominent deity in the Hindu pantheon, recognized as the divine son of Bhagwan Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is the younger brother of Bhagwan Ganesha and holds a central role as the commander of the celestial army. Known by various names such as Skanda, Murugan, Subrahmanya and Kumara, Bhagwan Kartikeya represents supreme intelligence, valor and spiritual focus. He plays a crucial role in defeating powerful demonic forces, especially Tarakasura, thereby restoring cosmic order and dharma. His presence in Hindu mythology emphasizes the triumph of divine will and inner strength over chaos and ignorance. As a warrior god, he also embodies youth, energy and determination, guiding devotees toward discipline and success in all spheres of life.

Bhagwan Kartikeya’s associated elements reflect his powerful identity. His vehicle (vahana) is the peacock, which symbolizes beauty, pride and the destruction of harmful tendencies such as ego and arrogance. He wields a divine spear known as the Vel, gifted by his mother Parvati, representing focused energy, sharp intellect and the power to eliminate obstacles. He is often depicted with six faces, each denoting heightened awareness and the ability to perceive truth from all directions. These attributes combined make him a symbol of victory, inner clarity and fearless leadership, deeply revered by those seeking strength, courage and wisdom.

Significance of Bhagwan Kartikeya

As the embodiment of divine wisdom, youthful vigor and martial excellence, he represents the disciplined mind that conquers ignorance and desire. His six faces symbolize the awakening of the six faculties of perception, leading to complete awareness and spiritual enlightenment. Spiritually, Bhagwan Kartikeya stands as the ideal guru or guide, imparting deep knowledge and awakening inner strength. He is also seen as the destroyer of inner demons, inspiring devotees to overcome fear, confusion and attachment through determination and clarity.

Regionally, Bhagwan Kartikeya is especially revered in South India, where he is worshipped as Murugan, the patron deity of the Tamil people. He is central to Shaiva and Kaumaram traditions, where his role as a warrior and teacher is deeply honored. Major temples dedicated to him, such as those in Palani, Thiruchendur and Swamimalai, attract millions of devotees. In Tamil Nadu and among Tamil communities worldwide, his worship is widespread and culturally significant.

Key festivals dedicated to Bhagwan Kartikeya include Skanda Sashti, a six-day observance commemorating his victory over the demon Surapadman. Thaipusam is another major festival, widely celebrated by Tamil Hindus, where devotees perform acts of penance and devotion in honor of the Vel, Kartikeya’s divine spear. Vaikasi Visakam is also a significant festival, marking the birth of Bhagwan Kartikeya and celebrated with grand processions, special prayers, and rituals in temples.

Iconography & Symbolism

Bhagwan Kartikeya is depicted as a youthful and radiant deity, symbolizing vitality, purity and divine courage. He typically has six faces (Shanmukha), each facing a different direction, signifying omniscience and the ability to see and understand all aspects of existence. These six faces also represent the six siddhis or spiritual powers and the six major energy centers (chakras) in the human body. He is usually shown with twelve arms holding various weapons, with the Vel spear being the most prominent. This spear, gifted by his mother Parvati, symbolizes divine knowledge, precision and the destruction of ignorance. His mount, the majestic peacock, stands beside him, trampling a serpent, which denotes the victory of wisdom over ego and lower instincts.

In sacred art, sculptures and temple iconography, Bhagwan Kartikeya is portrayed in dynamic and graceful forms, radiating youth, strength and serenity. South Indian temples, especially those in Tamil Nadu, feature elaborate carvings and grand idols of Murugan in various postures, standing tall, seated in meditation or riding the peacock. The six abodes of Murugan, known as Arupadai Veedu, are major pilgrimage sites and architectural marvels that depict episodes from his life, including his birth, battles and spiritual teachings. These temples serve as centers of devotion and learning, preserving ancient traditions of worship and art that honor his divine essence.

Color symbolism plays a vital role in Kartikeya’s depictions. He is often shown in golden or bluish hues, signifying radiance, divine energy and transcendental consciousness. His posture varies with the context—sometimes standing in a commanding pose with the Vel raised, or seated in meditation with a calm demeanor. His mudras, especially the Abhaya mudra (gesture of fearlessness) and Varada mudra (gesture of blessing), convey assurance, protection and the granting of boons. Together, these symbolic elements reflect his role as a compassionate warrior, spiritual guide and protector of righteousness.

Origin of Bhagwan Kartikeya

The origin of Bhagwan Kartikeya is one of the most captivating and purposeful episodes in Hindu mythology. Born not from a natural union but through divine design, his arrival was intended solely to defeat the powerful demon Tarakasura, who had become invincible through a boon that only Shiva's son could destroy him. However, Bhagwan Shiva was in deep meditation, withdrawn from worldly affairs. To awaken the cosmic force within him, the gods, led by Brahma and Vishnu, invoked the divine feminine energy, Goddess Parvati. Her penance and union with Shiva generated a spark of fiery energy that no celestial being could contain. Even the gods could not bear its intensity.

This divine spark was first carried by Agni, the fire god, but even he was scorched by its power. To preserve it, Agni placed the spark into the holy waters of the Ganga. From there, the seed was taken to a secluded forest of reeds known as Sharavana, where it matured into a radiant child with six faces. These faces, each symbolizing an awakened sense and supreme perception, were nurtured by six celestial maidens known as the Krittikas, who became his foster mothers. In honor of them, he was named Kartikeya. As soon as he was born, the child radiated power and authority far beyond his age. The divine armies naturally accepted him as their commander.

His story is more than a birth; it is the manifestation of divine strategy and purpose. Bhagwan Kartikeya represents the emergence of strength when it is most needed, the divine will that manifests at the right time to restore order. The very process of his birth reflects layers of symbolism: the release of Shiva’s energy, its refinement through Agni and Ganga, and its growth in nature, symbolizing that divine wisdom evolves through fire, purity and patience.

Throughout scriptures like the Skanda Purana , Shiva Purana and Mahabharata , Bhagwan Kartikeya is depicted as a child prodigy who assumes command of the divine armies and defeats Tarakasura with unmatched precision. His role is not just that of a warrior, but a force of inner awakening. His story reminds devotees that when faced with inner or outer demons, divine energy, once channeled through clarity, discipline and purpose, can conquer all.

This timeless tale continues to touch hearts because it mirrors the human journey. From chaos, uncertainty and dormant potential arises a focused force of action and clarity. In every stage of Kartikeya’s origin, there lies a message of hope: that from fire and struggle, divine victory is born.

Legends and Stories

The stories of Bhagwan Kartikeya are spiritual blueprints, filled with layers of meaning that inspire inner courage, clarity and devotion. Each tale is a reflection of human challenges and the divine solutions that arise when discipline, wisdom and surrender unite.

The Slaying of Tarakasura: The Divine Warrior Awakens

In an age when darkness had overwhelmed the heavens, Tarakasura, a demon armed with an indestructible boon, terrorized gods and sages. No one could defeat him, for only the unborn son of Bhagwan Shiva had the power to end his reign. From cosmic fire and divine grace, Kartikeya was born not merely as a child but as destiny’s answer to chaos. He grew with unmatched brilliance, trained in the art of war, and when the time came, led the army of the gods with fearless resolve. On the battlefield, with his divine spear Vel shining like concentrated wisdom, he pierced through the illusion of invincibility and ended Tarakasura’s terror. This story reminds us that when guided by divine will, even the seemingly impossible can be overcome through clarity, strength and focus.

The Test of Wisdom: Kartikeya and Ganesha

Once, Sage Narada presented a divine fruit symbolizing supreme knowledge and bliss to Shiva and Parvati, asking them to give it to the wiser of their two sons. A challenge was set: whoever circled the world three times first would win the fruit. Kartikeya soared into the skies on his peacock, determined and swift, racing across the earth and heavens. Ganesha, calm and thoughtful, simply circled his parents with reverence and declared, “You are my world.” Touched by his insight, Shiva and Parvati gave the fruit to Ganesha. When Kartikeya returned, he was initially puzzled. But upon understanding the depth of Ganesha’s act, he smiled with grace, bowing not in defeat, but in spiritual maturity. This story is a profound lesson that the highest knowledge is not found in outward journeys, but in honoring the divine presence in our life.

The Marriage of Devasena: A Union of Power and Purity

After Kartikeya’s triumphant battle against Tarakasura, the gods rejoiced. Indra, overwhelmed with gratitude, offered his daughter Devasena’s hand in marriage. This sacred union was not just a celebration of victory, but a symbol of divine harmony, the merging of strength with purity, valor with grace. In some traditions, Kartikeya’s love for Valli, a simple forest girl, unfolds as another chapter. Their story reveals the tenderness of divine love, showing that the highest truth embraces both the celestial and the earthly with equal compassion.

The Six Abodes of Victory: Arupadai Veedu

Each phase of Kartikeya’s divine journey is enshrined in six sacred shrines across Tamil Nadu, known as the Arupadai Veedu. These abodes are not just pilgrimage sites, they are sacred echoes of his evolution from a divine child to a victorious warrior and spiritual guide. From Palani, where he renounced the world in deep introspection, to Thiruchendur, where he vanquished evil forces by the sea, each temple mirrors a lesson of inner victory. These shrines invite devotees to walk the same path, through discipline, self-inquiry, surrender and service.

These stories do more than entertain or educate. They awaken something deeper, the realization that each of us holds the same divine spark within. Through Kartikeya’s tales, we are reminded that courage is born not from conquest, but from purpose, that wisdom blooms in humility, and that the greatest battles are always won within.

Spiritual Lessons from Bhagwan Kartikeya

The life and legends of Bhagwan Kartikeya are infused with timeless spiritual wisdom. His stories are not mere divine exploits, but luminous teachings for the seeker navigating life’s inner and outer battles. Each episode reveals essential values that resonate with courage, clarity, humility and transcendence.

Purpose Over Birth

Kartikeya’s divine emergence was not for glory or power, but to serve a cosmic purpose. His birth from fire, his growth in nature, and his immediate leadership of the celestial army reflect the lesson that one's origin does not define one's greatness, purpose does. When guided by a clear inner goal and divine will, even a child can become the commander of gods.

True Wisdom Lies in Perspective

The story of Kartikeya and Ganesha teaches that action without inner awareness can miss the deeper truth. Kartikeya chose the literal path, while Ganesha chose the path of insight. The spiritual message here is clear: wisdom is not always found through movement or effort but often through reverence, presence and understanding. Real knowledge is rooted in devotion and perception.

Humility in Greatness

Despite his valor, Kartikeya accepted Ganesha’s triumph with grace. His response was not pride or resistance but realization and maturity. He teaches that spiritual growth includes the humility to learn from others and the wisdom to rise above ego. Victory over oneself is greater than victory over others.

Power Anchored in Purity

His marriage to Devasena and love for Valli are more than sacred unions, they are expressions of divine love harmonizing with purity and devotion. These stories show that true power must be balanced with grace, and that the heart’s simplicity is as sacred as the heavens’ grandeur. Love, when rooted in dharma, becomes a path to divinity.

Inner Victory Over Outer Challenges

Kartikeya’s battles were never for personal gain, they were divine missions to restore harmony. He faced fearsome enemies without hesitation because he was aligned with truth. His six abodes (Arupadai Veedu) symbolize stages of inner purification, reminding seekers that life’s trials are opportunities to transcend ignorance, awaken clarity, and become a vessel for divine will.

Through these spiritual lessons, Bhagwan Kartikeya stands not just as a celestial warrior, but as a radiant guide for inner transformation. He calls the soul to rise in discipline, surrender to truth, and walk the path of fearless devotion.

Puja Vidhi at Home

To perform Bhagwan Kartikeya Puja at home, gather the essential materials and follow a structured process to ensure devotion and effectiveness.

Required Materials

• Image or idol of Bhagwan Kartikeya
• Kalash (sacred pot)
• Fresh flowers and garlands
• Incense sticks and lamp (diya)
• Fruits, coconut, and sweets for offering
• Kumkum, turmeric, sandalwood paste
• Rice, betel leaves, and betel nuts
• Clean cloth for altar setup
• Panchamrit (mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar)
• Holy water for purification

Step-by-Step Home Puja Guide

• Begin with a bath and wear clean clothes. Set up the puja altar facing east and place Bhagwan Kartikeya’s image or idol at the center.
• Purify the area and yourself with holy water. Place the Kalash filled with water and mango leaves near the idol.
• Offer flowers, sandalwood paste, kumkum, and turmeric to the deity. Light the lamp and incense sticks.
• Perform Sankalpa, stating your intent and wishes for the puja.
• Invoke Bhagwan Ganesha for obstacle removal, then proceed with Navagraha puja if desired.
• Offer Panchamrit and water for abhishekam to the idol, then wipe it clean and decorate with fresh flowers and garlands.
• Chant the Kartikeya mantra Om Saravana Bhavaya Namah You may set a fixed count for japa, such as 108 times, using a mala.
• Recite Kartikeya stotra, stuti, and kavach if available.
• Offer fruits, coconut, and sweets to the deity.
• Conclude with pushpanjali, offering flowers with devotion.

Chanting and Aarti Process

Chant Om Saravana Bhavaya Namah as the main Kartikeya mantra. For aarti, sing the Kartikeya Aarti with devotion. The aarti can be performed in Hindi or English, and its verses praise Kartikeya’s virtues and seek his blessings for courage, wisdom, and protection. Light the lamp, wave it in a circular motion before the deity, and ring the bell while singing the aarti. Distribute prasad to all participants at the end.

This puja process invokes Bhagwan Kartikeya’s blessings for strength, protection, and success in life. Regular practice fosters inner peace and spiritual growth.

Mantras Dedicated to Bhagwan Kartikeya

Om Saravana Bhavaya Namah

Meaning: Salutations to Bhagwan Saravana Bhava, the six-faced one born in the forest of reeds.
Benefits: This mantra invokes Kartikeya’s energy, removes obstacles, grants strength, courage, and success, and is especially effective for overcoming Mars-related issues such as Mangal Dosha. It enhances vitality, youthfulness, and spiritual growth.

Yogiishvaro Mahaa-Senah Kaartikeyo Agni-Nandanah Skandah Kumaarah Senaaniih Svaamii Shankara-Sambhavah

Meaning: Bhagwan Kartikeya, the supreme yogi, commander of the celestial army, son of Agni, Skanda, Kumara, leader of the divine forces, and born of Bhagwan Shiva.
Benefits: Chanting this verse invokes Kartikeya’s leadership, valor, and ability to destroy negativity. It bestows strength, discipline, and victory over challenges.

Gaangeyas-Taamra-Cuuddashca Brahmacaarii Shikhi-Dhvajah Taaraka-Arir-Umaa-Putrah Krauncaa-Rishca Ssaddaananah

Meaning: Kartikeya, beloved of Ganga, the celibate with the peacock emblem, enemy of Tarakasura and Krauncasura, son of Uma, and the six-faced one.
Benefits: This mantra removes family difficulties and conflicts, ensures peace and harmony, and protects from planetary afflictions.

Shabdabrahmasamudrashca Siddhah Saarasvato Guhah Sanatkumaaro Bhagavaan Bhogamokssaphalapradah

Meaning: Kartikeya, the ocean of divine sound, the accomplished one, Sarasvati’s favorite, the secretive Bhagwan, Sanatkumara, bestower of both worldly pleasures and liberation.
Benefits: Grants knowledge, eloquence, spiritual wisdom, and fulfillment of both material and spiritual desires.

Benefits of Worshipping Bhagwan Kartikeya

Spiritually, Kartikeya worship accelerates growth on the path to self-realization, cultivating wisdom, discipline, and courage. His energy purifies the mind, sharpens intuition, and aligns the devotee with higher knowledge. Kartikeya’s presence is closely linked to the Ajna chakra, supporting meditation and inner clarity. Regular worship removes negative tendencies, strengthens spiritual resolve, and leads aspirants toward moksha.

Mentally, Kartikeya’s blessings instill confidence, determination, and mental clarity. Devotees experience enhanced focus, better decision-making, and resilience against stress and distractions. His worship dissolves internal conflicts, eliminates fears, and fosters a fearless, disciplined mindset. Kartikeya’s influence is especially beneficial for students, professionals, and anyone seeking intellectual advancement or mastery over emotions.

Materially, Kartikeya worship brings success, victory, and protection in worldly pursuits. He grants vitality, youthfulness, and energy, enabling devotees to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Kartikeya’s blessings support harmonious family life, healthy children, and prosperity in assets such as land and wealth.

He provides relief from malefic planetary influences, particularly those associated with Mars, and removes obstacles related to marriage, health, and career.

Most Important Benefits

• Accelerates spiritual growth and self-realization
• Purifies the mind and enhances intuition
• Instills courage, confidence, and mental clarity
• Removes obstacles and negative influences
• Grants victory and success in personal and professional life
• Protects from malefic planetary effects, especially Mars
• Promotes harmonious family life and healthy children
• Increases vitality, youthfulness, and energy
• Supports intellectual advancement and better decision-making
• Bestows prosperity, assets, and overall well-being

Temples Dedicated to Bhagwan Kartikeya

Temples dedicated to Bhagwan Kartikeya are significant spiritual centers, especially in South India and among Tamil communities worldwide. Architecturally, these temples often feature Dravidian styles, with prominent gopurams and detailed carvings. Historical records show patronage from major dynasties, and many temples are built on hilltops or near water bodies, symbolizing Kartikeya’s divine attributes.

The Six Abodes of Murugan in Tamil Nadu, Thiruparankundram, Tiruchendur, Palani, Swamimalai, Tiruttani, and Pazhamudircholai, are the primary pilgrimage sites, each linked to key events in Kartikeya’s mythology. Palani is famous for its hill shrine and major festivals like Thaipusam and Vaikasi Visakam. Thiruchendur stands out for its coastal location and Skanda Sashti celebrations. Swamimalai is notable for its association with the teaching of Om, and Pazhamudircholai is unique for worshipping Kartikeya with both consorts.

Outside India, major Kartikeya temples are found in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Singapore. The Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Penang, Malaysia, is a prominent international center, attracting large crowds during Thaipusam. These temples serve as important pilgrimage destinations, especially during festivals, and uphold Kartikeya’s legacy as a symbol of courage, wisdom, and protection.

Presence in Other Traditions

Bhagwan Kartikeya’s influence extends beyond Hinduism into Buddhism, Jainism, and Southeast Asian traditions. In Buddhism, Kartikeya is identified as Skanda, a protective deity and guardian of the Dharma. Skanda appears in East Asian Buddhist iconography, especially in China and Korea, where he is depicted as a warrior protecting temples and practitioners. In Jainism, Kartikeya is less prominent but sometimes appears in regional traditions as a guardian figure or minor deity.

In Southeast Asia, Kartikeya, known as Murugan, holds a significant place in Khmer culture and Cambodian Hinduism. His image as a divine warrior and protector resonated with Khmer rulers and warriors, and temples dedicated to Murugan are found in Cambodia. The worship of Murugan is also prominent in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand, especially among Tamil diaspora communities. Festivals like Thaipusam, marked by acts of penance and devotion, highlight his enduring presence in these regions.

Comparative mythology places Kartikeya alongside other gods of war and victory, such as Ares in Greek mythology, Mars in Roman tradition, and Hachiman in Japanese belief. Like these deities, Kartikeya embodies martial prowess, leadership, and the protection of righteousness. However, his role as a spiritual liberator and his association with wisdom and discipline distinguish him from purely warlike counterparts, making him a unique figure in the global pantheon of warrior gods.

Rudra Centre’s Kartikeya Products & Puja Services

Bhagwan Kartikeya Idols

Gemstone and metal idols of Bhagwan Kartikeya in various sizes and styles, designed to inspire strength, determination, and spiritual growth in your home or altar.

Bhagwan Kartikeya (Murugan) with Peacock

A brass idol featuring Kartikeya with his peacock, crafted in traditional South Indian art style, ideal for auspicious blessings, intelligence, and overcoming obstacles.

Bhagwan Kartikeya Marble Idol

A pure Makrana marble idol of Kartikeya in his six-faced form, seated on a lotus, known for conferring victory, intelligence, and fulfillment of desires.

Bhagwan Kartikeya Pictures

Artistically portrayed images of Kartikeya on golden sheets, available in different sizes, meant to bring blessings of victory and spiritual wisdom.

6 Mukhi Nepal Rudraksha

A natural six-faced Rudraksha bead from Nepal, ruled by Kartikeya, known for boosting confidence, willpower, and removing negativity, available as a pendant or bracelet.

Kartikeya Puja, Mantra Japa and Yajna

A complete Vedic puja service including mantra chanting, homam, and rituals by expert priests, available online with live video and photo updates.

Conclusion: The Unconquered Flame of Courage and Triumph

Bhagwan Kartikeya’s story is a living epic of victory, resilience, and awakening. Born from the divine union of Shiva and Parvati to vanquish darkness, he emerges as the celestial general whose very presence electrifies the battlefield of life. Kartikeya is not just a warrior, he is the force that turns fear into fearlessness and doubt into determination.

His six faces see all directions, symbolizing total awareness and the ability to confront every challenge. The peacock at his side tramples the serpent of ego, reminding us that true power lies in mastering oneself. Kartikeya’s spear, the Vel, pierces through illusion, guiding seekers to clarity and purpose.

Across generations, his festivals ignite communities with hope and devotion. Pilgrims scale sacred hills, chant his mantras, and light lamps that chase away despair. In every ritual, Kartikeya’s energy stirs hearts, urging each devotee to rise above limitations and claim their highest potential.

He stands as the ultimate guide for those who refuse to surrender to adversity. In moments of struggle, his legend whispers that victory belongs to those who act with courage, discipline, and unwavering faith. Bhagwan Kartikeya’s legacy endures as a blazing path toward triumph, inspiring all who seek to conquer life’s battles and emerge radiant, strong, and free.