Story Summary
Explore the Birth of Kartikeya, the six-headed warrior god born from Shiva's energy to defeat the invincible demon Tarakasura and save the celestial realms.
The demon Tarakasura had gained a boon from Brahma: he could only be killed by a son of Lord Shiva. Believing Shiva, the eternal ascetic, would never marry again after the death of Sati, the demon unleashed a reign of terror upon the three worlds. However, the gods conspired to wake Shiva from his deep meditation, leading to his union with Parvati, the reincarnation of Sati. The energy resulting from their union was so intense that even the fire-god Agni could not contain it. Agni carried the divine seed to the Ganges, who then deposited it in the Shravana forest. Six infants were born and nursed by the Krittikas (the Pleiades). When Parvati arrived and embraced the six children, they miraculously fused into one being with six heads, known as Kartikeya or Shanmukha. Raised as a peerless warrior, Kartikeya was appointed the commander-in-chief of the celestial army. Leading the gods into battle, he used his divine spear, the Vel, to pierce the chest of Tarakasura, finally liberating the universe from the demon's tyranny.
The Moral
Divine intervention and the preservation of righteousness often require a balance of extreme discipline and sacrificial love.
“Born of fire and water, the commander of heavens arose to restore the light.”
Fun Fact
Kartikeya is the patron deity of the Tamil language and is extensively worshipped in South India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia as Lord Murugan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Birth of Kartikeya?
The story teaches that even the most formidable evil can be overcome when divine forces align. It emphasizes that discipline and the right intention are necessary for the birth of greatness.
Why was Kartikeya born?
He was born specifically to defeat the demon Tarakasura, who had a boon that he could only be killed by a son of Lord Shiva.
Who are Kartikeya's parents?
While he is the son of Shiva and Parvati, his birth involved Lord Agni (fire), the river Ganga, and the six Krittikas who nursed him.
Why does Kartikeya have six heads?
He was originally born as six separate infants. When Parvati embraced them all at once, they merged into one child with six heads to represent his many origins.
What are Kartikeya's other names?
He is widely known by many names including Murugan, Skanda, Shanmukha, Kumara, and Subramanya, especially in South India.
What weapon is Kartikeya famous for?
He is most famous for the Vel, a divine spear or lance given to him by Goddess Parvati, representing spiritual knowledge and power.