Why Lord Murugan is Most Revered in South India Despite His Pan-Indian Significance

Introduction

Lord Murugan, also known as Skanda, is the son of Lord Shiva and the brother of Lord Ganesha, yet his worship is predominantly concentrated in South India. This article explores the historical and cultural reasons behind his predominant association with the South and the significance of his worship in the region.

Historical Context

Early Worship in North and South India

Contrary to current perceptions, Lord Murugan was worshipped both in North and South India. The Bhagavad Gita references Skanda, who is described as the war chief, and he is also mentioned in texts like the Artha-Shastra of Chanakya, where he is referred to as one of the guardian deities. The Gupta emperors included names like Kumara Gupta and Skanda Gupta, indicating a strong connection to these deities.

Furthermore, the North Indian poet Kalidasa wrote his famous poem Kumara Sambhava, which revolves around the legend of Lord Murugan. Additionally, Lord Murugan is also a popular deity in Bengal, where he is commonly known as Kumar and is celebrated alongside Maa Durga during Navratri.

Regional Differences in Worship

Tamil Influence and Linguistic Factors

The Tamil language, being closely associated with Lord Murugan, has significantly contributed to his widespread worship among Tamilians. The deity is often referred to as 'Karthikeya' in North India, but his significance in the region has not diminished. In Bengal, Murugan is celebrated with the same fervor as in Tamil Nadu, although with some unique traditions.

For instance, in Bengal, devotees often drop two Karthik idols at someone's doorstep, compelling the person to celebrate Karthik puja for the next three years. This custom and others like celebrating Murugan during Navratri in conjunction with Maa Durga, indicate a continuous and deep-seated worship of Lord Murugan in the region.

Reasons for Predominant Worship in South India

Shrines and Cults

Although Lord Murugan's major shrines are located in South India, his prominence in the region has a historical and cultural backdrop. The Skanda-Maha festival is frequently mentioned in ancient Jain texts like the Kalpa Sutras, and it continues to be celebrated with great enthusiasm.

From the evidence provided by ancient Tamil literature, we can understand that Lord Murugan was mainly worshipped by hilly tribes and warlike soldiers. These groups maintain a strong connection with the deity, contributing to his popularity.

Conclusion

Despite his pan-Indian significance, Lord Murugan's worship is predominantly associated with South India due to a combination of linguistic, historical, and cultural factors. His prominence in Tamil Nadu and surrounding regions ensures his continued relevance and reverence for devotees.