Lord Subramanya

The purpose of Lord Subramanya’s incarnation was to destroy the powerful demon Tarakasura. Tarakasura was oppressing the Devas (celestials). All the Devas sought help from Brahma (the Lord of Creation). Brahma advised them to solicit help from Kama (Lord of Desire). Kama agreed to entice Lord Siva from his Yogic Samadhi, and to unite with Parvati. From this union a powerful son would be born who would destroy the demon Taraka. The Devas proceeded to Mount Kailas with Kamadeva and his companion Vasanta (spring season). Kama stood behind a tree and shot his arrow of passion at Siva, just as Parvati was offering flowers into his hands. Siva became angry at this disturbance of his meditation.

He opened his third eye and burned Kamadeva into ashes. Through his Yogic vision Lord Siva saw that the birth of Subramanya was absolutely necessary to destroy the powerful demon Tarakasura. Siva’s seed ejaculated from his body into the fire. The seed was too powerful for the fire. The fire gave the seed to Mother Ganga. Even Ganga was unable to retain the seed, so she gave it to the Saravana forest. It was in the Saravana forest that Subramanya was born. Hence he is known as Saravanabhava. Subramanya became the leader of the celestial hosts and the destroyer of Tarakasura. Valli and Devayani are his two wives. They represent Kriya Shakti (Action) and Jnana Shakti (Wisdom). Lord Subramanya bestows material and spiritual prosperity, and success in all undertakings. Guha, Muruga, Kartikeya, Shanmuga and Velayudha are some of His many names.