Skanda Kartikeya Worship | Warrior God - Symbolism - Mantras and Prayers - Meditation and Yantras - Practices for Skanda Kartikeya Worship

Skanda Kartikeya: 

Skanda, also known as Kartikeya, is a significant deity in Hinduism, especially revered as the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Worship of Skanda Kartikeya is often associated with valor, courage, and wisdom. 

Here are some aspects and practices related to Skanda Kartikeya worship:

Aspects of Skanda Kartikeya:

1. Warrior God:

Skanda is often depicted as a young warrior with six faces and twelve hands, riding a peacock. He is associated with war and is considered a commander of the army of the gods.

2. Symbolism:

The peacock, his mount, symbolizes vanity, and by riding it, Skanda is said to have conquered ego and pride.

His spear symbolizes the power to overcome obstacles.

3. Graha (Planet):

In Vedic astrology, Skanda is associated with the planet Mars (Mangala). Worshipers believe that propitiating Skanda can mitigate the negative effects of Mars in one's astrological chart.

Practices for Skanda Kartikeya Worship:

1. Festivals:

Skanda Shasti, a six-day festival dedicated to Skanda, is widely celebrated in South India. It usually occurs in the Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November).

2. Temples:

Temples dedicated to Skanda Kartikeya can be found across India. The most famous among them is the Murugan Temple in Palani, Tamil Nadu.

3. Mantras and Prayers:

Reciting specific mantras dedicated to Skanda, such as the "Skanda Gayatri Mantra" or the "Subrahmanya Ashtottara Shatanamavali," is a common practice.

4. Archanas and Pujas:

Devotees perform archanas (ritual offerings) and pujas (ceremonial worship) at Skanda temples or in their homes to seek the deity's blessings.

5. Vratas (Fasts):

Some devotees observe fasts on specific days dedicated to Skanda Kartikeya, abstaining from certain foods as a form of devotion.

6. Recitation of Scriptures:

Reading or listening to scriptures and stories related to Skanda, such as the "Kanda Purana" or the "Kumara Sambhava" by Kalidasa, is considered auspicious.

7. Offerings:

Devotees offer items like fruits, flowers, milk, and coconut to Skanda during worship.

8. Meditation:

Meditation on Skanda Kartikeya is practiced to cultivate qualities such as courage, focus, and discipline.

9. Yantras:

Some practitioners use specific yantras (geometric diagrams) associated with Skanda Kartikeya for meditation and spiritual practices.

10. Pilgrimages:

 Pilgrimages to sacred places associated with Skanda, such as the Six Abodes of Murugan (Arupadaiveedu) in Tamil Nadu, are considered spiritually significant.

Devotees approach Skanda Kartikeya for various reasons, including seeking protection, courage, success, and spiritual growth. The form of worship may vary across regions and traditions, but the underlying devotion and reverence for Skanda Kartikeya remain a common thread.