Shanmukha

Shanmukha, also known as Skanda, Kartikeya, Murugan, Subrahmanya, is a Hindu deity revered as the god of war and the commander of the devas. He is the son of Shiva and Parvati, and the brother of Ganesha. He is particularly venerated in South India and among Tamil communities worldwide, as well as in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

The name Shanmukha means "six-faced," a reference to his iconography. In Tamil tradition he is called Murugan, Karthikeya in Sanskrit, and Subrahmanya in many texts. He is depicted with six faces, often bearing a spear called the vel, and riding a peacock. He is commonly shown with his consorts Valli and Deivanai in later traditions.

Myth and birth: In Hindu mythology, Parvati, to guard her while bathing or to obtain a son capable of defeating powerful demons, creates a youthful warrior. Some accounts describe him as born from the sparks of Agni placed in Parvati's bosom; he grows rapidly, defeats the demon Tarakasura, and becomes the commander of the celestial army. His birth reflects the need for a son of Shiva who can end Tarakasura's tyranny.

Worship and temples: Murugan is a central figure in Tamil devotion and is worshipped across Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. The most important pilgrimage tradition is the Arupadai Veedhii, the six abodes: Thiruchendur, Palani, Swamimalai, Tiruttani, Pazhamudircholai, and Tirupparankundram. The major festival Thaipusam and Skanda Sashti commemorate his exploits and offers devotion and penance.

Texts and influence: Skanda Purana and various Tamil scriptures narrate his adventures and moral ideals, emphasizing youth, beauty, valor, dharma, and devotion. Murugan is often seen as a patron of Tamil culture and literature, with a strong temple-centric and festival-based worship that continues to shape regional religious life.