Kartikeya
Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, Skanda, or Subrahmanya, is a significant deity in Hinduism, particularly revered in South India. Depicted as a youthful and valorous god, he is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Kartikeya holds a prominent place in Hindu mythology and is associated with various virtues and legends. Born to vanquish the demon Tarakasura, Kartikeya's birth story is both fascinating and symbolic. Legend has it that the gods sought to create a powerful being capable of defeating Tarakasura, who had become invincible due to a boon. Shiva's seminal fluid was responsible for Kartikeya's birth, which was carried by the river Ganges and nurtured by the six Krittika stars, hence his name "Kartikeya." This narrative symbolizes the union of divine forces and cosmic elements to overcome evil. As the god of war, Kartikeya is often depicted wielding a spear or a Vel (divine lance), riding a peacock, which is his vahana (vehicle). His association with th...