Murugan: History and Festivals

MURUGAN THE DIVINE WARRIOR

Lord Murugan, also called Skanda, Subramanya, Velavan, and Karthikeya, is one of the most loved deities in Tamil culture. He is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the brother of Lord Ganesha. According to legends, Murugan was created from Lord Shiva's third eye to destroy the evil demon Surapadman.

Murugan represents wisdom, courage, leadership, and youth. He holds the powerful divine spear called the "Vel", which was gifted by his mother Parvati.

THE 2000-YEAR-OLD SUBRAMANYA TEMPLE NEAR MAHABALIPURAM, DEDICATED TO LORD MURUGAN, WAS LATER REBUILT IN GRANITE BY THE PALLAVAS IN THE 8TH–9TH CENTURIES.

Arupadai Veedu – The Six Holy Abodes

The six temples known as "Arupadai Veedu" are sacred places where Murugan fought and rested after his victories. These are all located in Tamil Nadu:

Thiruparankundram – Murugan married Devayanai here.
Tiruchendur – He defeated Surapadman here.
Palani – He renounced everything and became a saint.
Swamimalai – He taught the meaning of "Om" to Lord Shiva.
Thiruthani – He married Valli here.
Pazhamudircholai – He resides with both Valli and Devayanai.

Murugan Festivals & Meanings

Celebrated in the Tamil month of Thai (Jan–Feb) on the full moon day. Marks the day Parvati gave Murugan the Vel to defeat Surapadman.
Tradition: Kavadi offerings, piercing, processions.

1. Thaipusam

2. Panguni Uthiram

Celebrates the celestial weddings of Murugan with Devayanai and Valli. Held in March–April.

3. Vaikasi Visakam

Celebrates the divine birth of Lord Murugan on Visakam star in the Vaikasi month (May–June).

Celebrates the six Karthigai maidens who raised Murugan.

4. Aadi Krithigai

5. Skanda Sashti

A six-day festival in Aippasi (Oct–Nov), reenacting the battle between Murugan and Surapadman, ending with Soorasamharam.

6. Karthigai Deepam

Festival of Lights in Nov–Dec, associated with fire and Murugan's divine radiance.

Murugan in Tamil Culture

Murugan is deeply woven into Tamil culture. Saints like Arunagirinathar and Avvaiyar wrote thousands of hymns in his praise. Murugan is the center of many village traditions, rituals, and temple arts. He is also considered the guardian of the Tamil language.

Conclusion

Lord Murugan is not only a warrior god but a symbol of discipline, love, youth, and devotion. His story continues to inspire millions across Tamil Nadu and the world.