Introduction
Hinduism is a religion where every deity, festival, and ritual carries profound symbolic meaning. Among the many revered gods, Kartikeya, also known as Kartik, Skanda, Murugan, or Subramanya, holds a special place. He is worshipped as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the younger brother of Lord Ganesha, and the commander-in-chief of the celestial army of the Devas.
Kartik Puja is dedicated to Kartikeya and is observed in various parts of India, particularly in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Southern India (under the name Murugan Puja or Skanda Sashti). This festival usually falls in the Hindu month of Kartik (October–November), according to the lunar calendar. Devotees perform rituals, prayers, and offerings to honor Kartikeya, seeking his blessings for courage, protection, wisdom, and prosperity.
This blog explores Kartik Puja in depth—its mythological background, scriptural references, rituals, associated legends, and its relevance in today’s world.
Mythological Background of Kartikeya
The story of Kartikeya is deeply embedded in Hindu mythology. His birth itself was an extraordinary event, arising from the cosmic need to defeat Tarakasura, a powerful demon who terrorized the three worlds. According to the scriptures, only the son of Lord Shiva could slay Tarakasura. Since Shiva was immersed in meditation, the gods had to devise ways to unite Shiva and Parvati, leading to Kartikeya’s birth.
Kartikeya is often depicted as a handsome young warrior, riding a peacock and wielding a spear called Vel. His very image symbolizes victory over darkness and ignorance. He is also revered as the epitome of brahmacharya (celibacy) and discipline, making him a role model for youth.
Scriptural References to Kartikeya
Mentions of Kartikeya can be found across many Hindu scriptures, particularly the Puranas and the Mahabharata. Since Blogger does not support table formatting, here are the references in bullet points:
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Skanda Purana
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Describes in detail the birth of Kartikeya, his childhood, and his role as the commander of the Devas.
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Narrates his battle with Tarakasura, where Kartikeya fulfills the prophecy of being the only one capable of slaying the demon.
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Shiva Purana
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Explains the divine union of Shiva and Parvati that led to Kartikeya’s birth.
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Highlights his spiritual significance as the embodiment of Shiva’s power and Parvati’s nurturing grace.
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Mahabharata (Shalya Parva)
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References Kartikeya as the general of the celestial army.
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Portrays him as a warrior with divine valor, invoked by warriors during battles.
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Ramayana
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Mentions Kartikeya as a revered deity, showing his pan-Indian importance.
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Padma Purana
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Speaks of Kartikeya’s role as a guardian of dharma and a bestower of wisdom.
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Tamil Texts (Tiruppugazh, Sangam Literature)
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Extensively praise Lord Murugan (Kartikeya) as the god of Tamil people, protector of righteousness, and symbol of eternal youth.
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Myths and Clarifications
Like many Hindu deities, Kartikeya’s worship carries myths that are often misunderstood or simplified. Some of the most common ones include:
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Myth: Kartikeya left Kailash forever due to rivalry with Ganesha.
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Clarification: According to some legends, Kartikeya felt humiliated when Ganesha was declared superior by Shiva and Parvati. However, texts such as the Skanda Purana show that Kartikeya remained devoted to his parents and carried out his divine duties as commander of the gods. The “rivalry” symbolizes different spiritual paths: Ganesha represents wisdom and patience, while Kartikeya represents courage and action.
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Myth: Kartikeya is worshipped only in South India.
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Clarification: While Lord Murugan has a strong following in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, Kartik Puja is a major event in Bengal, Odisha, and Assam as well. In Bengal, for example, Kartikeya is also associated with household prosperity and is sometimes worshipped as the protector of family businesses.
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Myth: Kartikeya is unmarried everywhere.
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Clarification: In North India and Bengal, Kartikeya is worshipped as a celibate deity. However, in Tamil traditions, he is believed to have two consorts—Valli and Devasena—who represent the human soul’s journey towards divinity.
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Rituals of Kartik Puja
The way Kartik Puja is observed varies across regions, but some core rituals remain the same.
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Fasting and Purification
Devotees, particularly women, often observe fasts, wake up early, bathe in holy rivers, and wear clean clothes. -
Idol Worship and Offerings
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In Bengal, idols of Kartikeya are crafted, adorned with flowers, and placed on altars. Offerings of fruits, sweets, and incense are made.
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Lamps are lit to symbolize Kartikeya’s power of dispelling darkness.
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Chanting and Hymns
Hymns such as the Skanda Shashti Kavacham (in Tamil) and verses from the Skanda Purana are recited to invoke blessings. -
Processions and Community Celebrations
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In Odisha and Bengal, processions of Kartikeya’s idol are taken through neighborhoods.
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In Tamil Nadu, the Skanda Shashti festival involves grand temple celebrations, particularly in Palani, Tiruchendur, and Swamimalai.
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Household Observances
Many families worship Kartikeya for the protection of children, prosperity in trade, and harmony in the household.
Impact of Kartik Puja in Today’s World
Even in the 21st century, Kartik Puja continues to play a significant role in shaping cultural and spiritual life. Its impact can be seen in several dimensions:
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Spiritual Discipline: Kartikeya, as the deity of valor and self-control, inspires the youth to embrace discipline, courage, and responsibility.
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Cultural Unity: The worship of Kartikeya bridges North and South India—worshipped as Kartik in the East and Murugan in the South, he stands as a pan-Indian deity.
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Family and Prosperity: In Bengal, households associate Kartik Puja with prosperity, child welfare, and business success, reflecting the adaptability of religion to social needs.
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Environmental Awareness: The rituals of lighting lamps, offering flowers, and respecting nature remind people of ecological harmony, aligning well with modern sustainability values.
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Festive Bonding: Like other Hindu festivals, Kartik Puja fosters community bonding, neighborhood celebrations, and cultural expression through art, music, and rituals.
Conclusion
Kartik Puja is more than a festival—it is a celebration of courage, discipline, and divine protection. Rooted in ancient scriptures like the Skanda Purana and Shiva Purana, it tells the story of a young warrior-god who stood up against the forces of evil and emerged victorious. The myths surrounding him highlight deeper spiritual truths about wisdom, patience, courage, and balance.
In today’s world, Kartik Puja continues to be a source of inspiration. It reminds us that true victory lies not only in defeating external enemies but also in conquering inner weaknesses. Whether worshipped as Kartik in Bengal or Murugan in Tamil Nadu, he remains a beloved deity who unites people through devotion, discipline, and the eternal pursuit of righteousness.
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