Blogs
Skanda Shasti Vratham: Festival of Lord Murugan’s Soorasamharam
Skanda Shasti Vratham is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Skanda or Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Worshipped as the warrior deity, Lord Murugan was born with a divine purpose: to defeat the evil demon king Surapadman, who terrorized the three worlds, including the realm of the Devas. The six-day event culminates in Soorasamharam, reenacting Lord Murugan's victory over Surapadman. This festival is primarily observed in Tamil Nadu and among Tamil communities worldwide. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and serves as a time for spiritual devotion and...
Why Devotees Break Coconuts for Lord Ganesh? - The Story and Spiritual Meaning
Breaking a coconut before Lord Ganesh has become a powerful symbol of devotion, one deeply rooted in both story and spirituality. As devotees place the humble coconut on the altar, they aren’t merely performing a ritual; they’re connecting with an age-old tradition that embodies transformation, humility, and a plea for divine blessings. The Story Behind Coconut-Breaking According to Hindu mythology, the coconut holds a unique place, especially in rituals dedicated to Lord Ganesh. Many legends explain why breaking a coconut is seen as an auspicious offering. One popular tale speaks of an ancient king who sought a way to sacrifice...
Lord Shiva as the Destroyer of Ego: Embracing Change and Transformation in Life
In Hindu mythology, the holy Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva represent the cosmic functions of creation, preservation, and destruction. Lord Shiva, one of the most revered and powerful deities, holds the title of the 'Destroyer' within this divine triad. Yet, Shiva’s role as the ‘Destroyer’ goes far beyond mere destruction—he embodies the force that dissolves the ego, shatters ignorance, and frees us from false attachments. His energy is a transformative power, clearing the way for profound spiritual growth, inner peace, and personal evolution. Understanding Shiva as the 'Destroyer of Ego' reveals essential insights into how we, too, can embrace...
Celebrations of Skanda Shasti at Famous Temples
Skanda Shasti is a vibrant and deeply spiritual festival celebrated with fervor across India, especially in Tamil Nadu, where Lord Murugan, the revered son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is honored as a divine warrior. This six-day festival marks Murugan's legendary victory over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and inspiring devotees to overcome their own inner battles. Thousands of devotees gather annually at famous Murugan temples, participating in elaborate rituals, recitations of sacred texts, and colorful processions. Highlights include the grand Soorasamharam reenactment, intense fasting, and the chanting of Kandha Shasti Kavasam, believed to...
Why is Lord Murugan Called the Tamil God?
Have you ever noticed how deeply connected Tamil people worldwide are to Lord Murugan? Revered as the god of war, victory, and wisdom, Lord Murugan holds a central place in Tamil culture, often earning him the title “Tamil God” or “Tamizh Kadavul.” This profound connection to the Tamil language, traditions, and values has deep historical roots, shaping Tamil society and identity for thousands of years. Below, we explore the origins, symbolism, and cultural significance that establish Murugan as a beloved deity in Tamil Nadu, drawing from evidence found in literature, sculptures, and ancient Tamil worship practices. Birth and Divine Emergence...