Why Kartikeya is not worshipped?
Kartikeya, the valiant son of Lord Shiva and Parvati, a powerful warrior god. Yet, a curious misconception persists – that Kartikeya is not worshipped to a significant degree. Here, drawing wisdom directly from the sacred Shastras, we aim to dispel this myth and illuminate the widespread devotion dedicated to Kartikeya across India.
The Mighty Kartikeya
स्कन्दं कुमारमभिवन्दितुं सुरगणाः समागतं ये।
तेषां चतुर्दश सहस्राणि दिवि चक्रुः स्तुतिं महत्तीम्।।
Fourteen thousand celestial beings gathered to worship Skanda, the Kumara. They offered him grand praise in the heavens.
स्कन्दः सर्वेश्वरः शक्तिः स्कन्दः सर्वजगत्पतिः।
स्कन्दः सर्वेश्वरभूतः स्कन्दः सर्वार्थसिद्धिकृत्।।
Skanda is the Lord of all, the power. Skanda is the ruler of all beings. Skanda is the embodiment of all lords. Skanda is the bestower of success in all endeavors.
स्कन्दं सर्वेश्वरं देवं भुवनाधिष्ठितं विभुम्।
भक्तानुग्राहकं देवं शरण्यं शरणं भजे।।
I seek refuge in Skanda, the supreme Lord, the god who resides over the worlds, the powerful one, the benefactor of devotees, the refuge of the helpless.
Born from the divine spark of Shiva’s third eye, Kartikeya represents immense power and unwavering determination. He is Skanda, the vanquisher of the demon Tarakasura, a symbol of conquering darkness and negativity. As Kumara, the eternal youth, he embodies boundless energy and vitality. Kartikeya’s prowess extends beyond the battlefield. He is revered as Shanmukha, the six-faced one, signifying wisdom, knowledge, and the ability to discern truth from illusion.
Blessings of Kartikeya: Seeking Strength and Guidance
शक्तिप्रदः शूरवीर्यो वीरसेनोपजीवनः।
विघ्ननाशो ज्वलनश्च स्कन्दः सर्वार्थसिद्धिकृत्।।
He who grants strength, the valiant hero, the sustainer of the army of heroes, the remover of obstacles, the blazing one – Skanda, the bestower of all success.
स्कन्दः सर्वेश्वरः सर्वजगत्पितामहः।
सर्वभूतकृतं पापं हरति स शिवपुत्रः।।
Skanda is the Lord of all, the grandfather of all beings. He, the son of Shiva, removes all sins committed by all creatures.
स्कन्दः षडाननो युवा युद्धे विक्रान्त एव च।
देवानां चापि सेनानी सर्वभूतपितामहः।।
Skanda, the six-faced youth, is forever brave in battle. He is the commander of the devas (celestial beings) and the grandfather of all beings.
For devotees seeking martial prowess, Kartikeya serves as a potent inspiration. His unwavering focus and strategic brilliance resonate with those aspiring to conquer challenges in life. He is also hailed as Vahanasya, the charioteer, symbolizing control over one’s inner chariot – the mind and senses. By worshipping Kartikeya, devotees seek not just physical strength but also the mental fortitude to navigate life’s battles, both external and internal.
The Journey South
षडाननो वज्रहस्तो द्विषद्दलनकारकः।
स्कन्दः सर्वेश्वरो नित्यं सर्वभूतहिते रतः।।
He who has six faces and holds a thunderbolt in his hand, the destroyer of enemies, Skanda, the Lord of all, is eternally engaged in the welfare of all beings.
स्कन्दः षडाननो युवा युद्धे विक्रान्त एव च।
तस्य स्मृतिर्मम सर्वत्र विजयं ददाति मे।।
Skanda, the six-faced youth, is forever brave in battle. Remembering him grants me victory everywhere.
तं त्रैलोक्यकुट्टिमं स्कन्दमशेषदैत्यदलनं महेन्द्रमित्रं नमः।।
Salutations to Skanda, the crusher of the three worlds, the destroyer of all demons, and the friend of Indra.
The legend of Kartikeya’s southward journey is a cherished narrative in Hindu mythology. A playful dispute arose between Kartikeya and his brother Ganesha, with the victor promised a celestial fruit. Kartikeya, known for his swiftness, embarked on a journey to circumambulate the world. However, Ganesha, embodying wisdom, simply circled his parents, Shiva and Parvati, recognizing them as the embodiment of the universe. While Kartikeya returned, he had technically lost the race. Yet, Shiva, acknowledging Ganesha’s intelligence, awarded him the fruit. Disheartened, Kartikeya chose to reside in the south, where he is worshipped with immense devotion as Murugan.
Murugan: The Beloved Deity of South India
In South India, Kartikeya, revered as Murugan, reigns supreme. Here, his six abodes – Thiruchendur, Tiruparamkundram, Swamimalai, Palani, Pazhamudircholai, and Alagarkoil – attract millions of devotees seeking blessings. The vibrant festivals of Skanda Shashti and Thaipusam are testaments to the fervent devotion towards Murugan. From the majestic sculptures depicting his valor to the rhythmic chants of his mantras, South India pulsates with the energy of Murugan worship.
A Multitude of Names
Kartikeya’s multifaceted nature finds expression in the multiple names bestowed upon him. He is Skanda, the vanquisher of demons; Vishakh, the wielder of the powerful Vel weapon; and Guha, the one who protects devotees from darkness. Each name unveils a unique aspect of his divine character. This rich nomenclature reflects the diverse ways devotees connect with him, seeking his blessings in various aspects of life.
Respect Through Difference: Regional Variations in Worship
The misconception about Kartikeya’s worship likely stems from the rich tapestry of regional variations within Hinduism. Just as Ganesha holds a prominent position in Maharashtra, Krishna in Gujarat, and Durga in Bengal, each region has its own pantheon of revered deities. Also, the dominance of Shiva and Vishnu worship in certain regions might overshadow other deities. Kartikeya, while particularly celebrated in South India, is certainly not neglected elsewhere. Temples dedicated to him can be found throughout the country, from the ancient Kanheri Caves in Maharashtra to shrines scattered across North India.
Celebration of Widespread Devotion
The misconception surrounding Kartikeya’s worship can be laid to rest. From the vibrant South Indian traditions to the dedicated shrines across the nation, Kartikeya continues to inspire and empower devotees. By delving into the Shastras and exploring regional variations, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of this powerful warrior god. So, the next time you hear the misconception about Kartikeya, remember the resounding chants of “Murugan!” echoing through South India, and the unwavering faith that resides in the hearts of his devotees across the country.
Om Subrahmanyaaya Namah!
Shivashtakam