Ranganathar

Ranganathar is a Hindu deity, primarily worshipped in the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. He is considered the son of Shiva and Parvati, and is often depicted as a young, handsome, and powerful figure. Ranganathar is known for his fierce nature and is often associated with the destruction of evil. He is also known as Murugan, a name that is more commonly used in Tamil Nadu, and as Arjunan in Kerala. His primary temple is the Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, which is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Ranganathar and his consort, Kanthimathi. The festival of Thai Poosam is celebrated annually in his honor, during which devotees perform the Thai Poosam ritual, a form of self-flagellation to seek the deity's blessings. Ranganathar is also associated with the arts, particularly music and dance, and is often depicted playing the veena, a traditional Indian musical instrument. His worship is prevalent in the Tamil and Malayali communities, and he is considered a protector and provider.