Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, Skanda, or Subrahmanya, is revered as the deity of wisdom, courage, and victory in Hinduism. His worship is especially prominent in South India and Sri Lanka. Here’s a comprehensive guide to following and worshiping Lord Murugan:
Simple Prayers to Begin With
Morning Prayer:
Upon waking, chant:
"Om Saravanabhava Namah"
This mantra invokes Murugan's blessings for strength, wisdom, and peace.Before Important Tasks:
Chant:
"Om Subrahmanyaaya Namah"
It is believed to help overcome obstacles and ensure success.
Simple Puja Steps
Preparation:
- Clean your puja space and take a bath to purify yourself.
- Set up a small altar with an image or idol of Lord Murugan.
Offerings:
- Light a ghee lamp or a camphor diya.
- Offer fresh flowers, especially red or yellow (Murugan's favorite colors).
- Place fruits, coconut, and homemade sweets like Panchamrit or Payasam.
Chanting and Prayers:
- Begin with Ganesh worship by chanting:
"Om Gan Ganapataye Namah" - Follow with Murugan's mantra:
"Om Saravanabhava Namah" or "Om Subrahmanyaaya Namah" - Recite Kanda Shasti Kavacham, a sacred hymn dedicated to Murugan.
- Begin with Ganesh worship by chanting:
Conclude:
- Perform an aarti with a camphor flame.
- Offer the prasadam (food offerings) to the deity and then distribute it to family or visitors.
Clothes and Colors
- Preferred Colors:
Red and yellow are considered auspicious for Murugan worship. - Clothing:
Traditional Indian attire is ideal:- Men: Dhoti and a simple shawl.
- Women: Saree or salwar kameez.
- Avoid wearing black during pujas as it is generally considered inauspicious.
Benefits of Worshiping Lord Murugan
- Wisdom and Clarity: Murugan symbolizes divine wisdom, granting clarity in decision-making.
- Courage and Strength: He empowers devotees to overcome fear and challenges.
- Protection: Murugan is a warrior deity, known to protect from negative forces.
- Spiritual Growth: His worship aids in overcoming inner ignorance and achieving enlightenment.
- Harmony in Relationships: Prayers to Murugan foster unity and peace within families.
Mantras for Daily Practice
Moola Mantra (Root Mantra):
"Om Saravanabhava Namah"
Chant 108 times daily to invoke His blessings.Gayatri Mantra for Murugan:
"Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe, Mahasenaya Dhimahi, Tanno Shanmukha Prachodayat."
This mantra enhances spiritual strength and mental focus.Ashtakshara Mantra (Eight-Syllable):
"Om Valli Devayai Namah"
Invoking His consorts' blessings promotes balance and harmony.
Rare Facts About Lord Murugan
- Six Faces: Murugan's six faces (Shanmukha) symbolize His all-encompassing knowledge and His ability to see in all directions.
- Peacock Vehicle: His mount, the peacock, represents the destruction of pride and vanity.
- Vel (Spear): The Vel, gifted by His mother Parvati, signifies wisdom, purity, and power.
- Kartikeya’s Birth: Murugan was born from Lord Shiva’s third eye and six sparks of fire, representing divine will and energy.
Practical Steps and Ideas for Modern Times
Meditation with Murugan’s Image:
Meditate daily, visualizing Murugan holding His Vel, seated on His peacock. This practice instills courage and clarity.Participate in Festivals:
Attend or organize rituals during important festivals like Thaipusam and Skanda Shasti. These are powerful days to connect with Murugan.Charity and Acts of Service:
Murugan encourages the spirit of giving. Donate food, education materials, or support cultural activities to embody His virtues.Simplified Worship:
If time-constrained, light a lamp, chant His mantra, and offer a heartfelt prayer in a quiet corner of your home.Modern Connection:
- Use apps or YouTube to listen to Murugan hymns and chants daily.
- Visit temples like Palani, Tiruchendur, or Swamimalai virtually if physical travel is not possible.
By integrating these practices into your life, you can deepen your devotion to Lord Murugan and experience His transformative grace.