Kumar Skanda (Kumar Kartikeya)

Introduction

Kumār Skanda, also known as 'Kartikeya', is a revered deity in Hinduism. He is the god of war, youth, and victory and is a while known narrator of 'Shri Swosthani Brata Katha', a part of Skanda Purana (named after himself). He is the son of 'Lord Shiva' and 'Goddess Parvati' and is primarily known for his role as the commander of the 'Deva army' in their battles against demonic forces. The story of Skanda's birth, his adventures, and his divine role are extensively narrated in various Puranas, making him a crucial figure in Hindu mythology.

Birth of Kumāra Skanda

The circumstances of Skanda's birth vary slightly across texts, but the central narrative revolves around the gods seeking his help to defeat the powerful demon 'Tarakasura'.

Skanda's Birth as Described in Puranas:

1. Skanda Purana:

   - 'Skanda Purana', the largest of the 18 Mahapuranas, is dedicated primarily to Kumāra Skanda. It describes his birth as a result of a powerful union between Lord Shiva and Parvati, facilitated by Agni. The gods requested the birth of a powerful son to defeat Tarakasura, who had received a boon that only a son of Shiva could kill him.

   **Reference**: Skanda Purana, Maheshwara Khanda, Kumara Khanda (Chapters 1-3).

2. Shiva Purana:

   - In the **Shiva Purana**, the birth of Skanda is linked to Shiva’s penance. When the gods faced destruction at the hands of Tarakasura, they sought Lord Shiva's assistance, but since Shiva was immersed in meditation, they invoked the help of Parvati. After Shiva and Parvati’s union, their energy was carried by Agni and deposited into the waters of the Ganges, from which Skanda was born.

   **Reference**: Shiva Purana, Rudra Samhita, Kumara Khanda (Chapter 16).

3. Mahabharata:

   - The **Mahabharata** provides another version of Skanda's birth, stating that he was born from the six sparks that emerged from Shiva's third eye. These sparks were carried by the wind god **Vayu** and deposited in the **Sarayu** river. The six celestial nymphs (the **Krittikas**) nursed the baby, hence the name Kartikeya.

   **Reference**: Mahabharata, Shalya Parva, Chapter 46.

4. Vayu Purana:

   - The **Vayu Purana** discusses the birth of Skanda in a similar fashion, emphasizing the cosmic significance of his birth. The sparks of Shiva’s energy fell into the Ganga and then into the **Sharavana** forest, where Skanda emerged. The six-headed Skanda, also called **Shanmukha** due to his six faces, was nursed by the six Krittikas, leading to the name Kartikeya.

   **Reference**: Vayu Purana, Chapter 39.

Role as the Commander of the Deva Army

Once Skanda was born, his leadership was immediately called upon by the gods to defeat the demon Tarakasura. Armed with divine weapons and blessed by his parents, Skanda’s youthful energy and valor became instrumental in the celestial battles.

1. Victory Over Tarakasura:

   - In most Puranas, Skanda’s primary role after his birth is to defeat **Tarakasura**, the demon who could not be killed by anyone but Shiva’s offspring. Skanda led the Deva army with great skill and eventually killed Tarakasura with his divine spear, the **Vel**.

   **Reference**: Skanda Purana, Maheshwara Khanda, Kumara Khanda.

2. Karttikeya's Divine Weapons:

   - Skanda is associated with powerful weapons, particularly the **Vel** (spear), which was gifted to him by his mother Parvati. This spear became his principal weapon, symbolizing his martial prowess and protection of the world against evil forces.

   **Reference**: Skanda Purana, Chapter 12.

The Symbolism of Kumara Skanda

1. Six Faces: His six faces represent his omnipotence and all-seeing nature. The faces symbolize various qualities, such as knowledge, valor, and protection. His multiple faces also represent his ability to combat evil from all directions.

   

2. The Vel (Spear): The spear symbolizes his power of destruction and purification. It is a symbol of wisdom and triumph over evil.

3. The Peacock: His vahana (mount) is a peacock named 'Paravani', which symbolizes beauty and power. The peacock also represents the destruction of ego.

Marriage and Family Life

Skanda’s marriage is another significant aspect of his mythology, varying across traditions:

1. Valli and Devasena:

   - Skanda is married to two consorts: **Valli** and **Devasena**. Valli is depicted as a simple tribal girl, while Devasena is the daughter of **Indra**, the king of the gods. The marriage to Valli symbolizes divine love, while Devasena represents the royal and celestial aspect of his life.

   **Reference**: Skanda Purana, Chapter 17.

Festivals associated with Skanda Kumar

Kumar Sasthi / Sithi Nakha:

The Kumar Skanda was born on the sixth day of the 'Jestha Shukla Pakshya" (the 6th day of the waxing phase of moon in 'Jestha' month of Lunar calendar). On this day, 'Newars' in and outside Kathmandu valley of Nepal pay special homage to their family deities. The festival is celebrated by cleaning water sources and offering a feast. The entire rivers, ponds and water reservoir are cleaned which are the symbol of 'Mother Ganga' to whom Kumar Skanda was born. Dignified Kumar, the commander of the 'Devas', is established by the Newar communities inside their house, temples or palaces. Kumar's vehicle, Peacock is carved in homes.

Swasthani Brata:

'Shree Swasthani' is a Hindu goddess, and is responsible for the good fortune, welfare and power. She is mostly worshipped in Nepal in the holy month from 'Poush Shukla purnima to Magh Shukla purnima' (around January and February) with dedicated rituals. 'Swasthani Brata katha' is a Hindy tale recited every day for a month. The book has 31 chapters which tell the story of life of various gods and goddesses. The sacred book originated in the Kathmandu valley and is mostly read by Nepali Hindus in comparison with those from India. This book is derived from Skanda Purana is formed upon the conversation in between 'Agastya Muni' (a sage) and Kumar Skanda. 'Agastya Muni' have many questions and queries to which 'Kumar Skanda' replies and narrates various stories.

Conclusion

Kumāra Skanda remains one of the most celebrated deities in Hinduism, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. His birth, his role as the divine commander, and his worship in various forms and regions reflect his wide-reaching influence. Through festivals, temples, and various regional traditions, Skanda continues to inspire devotion and reverence across the Hindu world.

## References from Different Puranas:

1. **Skanda Purana**: Maheshwara Khanda, Kumara Khanda, Chapters 1-17.

2. **Shiva Purana**: Rudra Samhita, Kumara Khanda, Chapter 16.

3. **Vishnu Purana**: Chapter 20.

4. **Mahabharata**: Shalya Parva, Chapter 46.

5. **Vayu Purana**: Chapter 39.