Surapadman

Surapadman, also spelled Soorapadman, is a demon king (asura) in Hindu mythology who figures prominently in the legends of Skanda (Murugan), the son of Shiva and Parvati. He is described as a mighty foe who oppressed the gods and waged war against the Devas and celestial beings, gaining power through boons and his tyranny.

The conflict culminates in a confrontation with Murugan, who wields the divine spear, the Vel, and is aided by the divine powers of his parents. In the narrative, Murugan defeats Surapadman after a fierce battle. Surapadman is often depicted as having multiple heads (variously five or six) and a formidable army. The combat is notable for Murugan cutting off the demon’s heads with the Vel; in some tellings, the last head is broken or the demon is ultimately tamed by devotion, or Surapadman is transformed into a devotee of Murugan. The outcome is presented as the triumph of dharma and divine order.

Religiously, the episode is significant in Tamil Hinduism and Skanda Purana lore. It is commemorated in temple traditions and art, especially in associations with Murugan temples in Tamil Nadu such as Tiruchendur. The Surapadman narrative reinforces themes of divine victory over adharma, the virtue of devoted worship to Murugan, and the cosmic role of Skanda as a protector of the celestial order.