Lord Murugan, being known as the God of the Tamils, has numerous temples dedicated to him across the world, with the highest concentration in Tamil Nadu, India. His worship involves unique practices and rituals that have been followed for centuries.
The six major temples of Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu are collectively known as "Arupadai Veedu" (Six Abodes of Murugan). These temples are:
Located in the Palani Hills, this is one of the richest and most visited temples in Tamil Nadu. Here, Lord Murugan is worshipped as Dandayudhapani, a hermit carrying a staff. The idol is made of an amalgam of nine minerals called Navapashanam.
Situated on a hilltop, this temple represents the place where Lord Murugan, after defeating the demon Surapadman, married Valli.
Here, Lord Murugan is depicted as teaching the meaning of the sacred 'Om' mantra to his father, Lord Shiva. He is worshipped as Swaminatha.
This coastal temple is where Lord Murugan is believed to have defeated the demon Surapadman. It is the only temple among the six where the deity faces the eastern direction towards the sea.
Located on a hill near Madurai, this temple is surrounded by natural beauty. Here, Lord Murugan is worshipped along with his consorts Valli and Deivayanai.
One of the oldest rock-cut temples in Tamil Nadu, it is believed to be where Lord Murugan married Deivayanai, the daughter of Indra.
Apart from the six main abodes, other major temples dedicated to Lord Murugan include:
Lord Murugan is also worshipped in temples across India in states like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and West Bengal, as well as in countries with significant Tamil populations like Mauritius, Fiji, South Africa, Canada, United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
The worship of Lord Murugan involves several distinctive practices:
This is a ceremonial sacrifice and offering to Lord Murugan practiced by his devotees during festivals like Thaipusam. The Kavadi is a physical burden which consists of two semicircular pieces of wood or steel which are bent and attached to a cross structure, balanced on the shoulders of the devotee. Devotees carry this as a means of balancing a spiritual debt or seeking blessings for a loved one.
The Vel (spear) is considered the primary weapon of Lord Murugan and symbolizes wisdom and power. Many devotees pierce their skin, tongue, or cheeks with small vel-shaped skewers as an act of devotion.
A sacred mixture made of banana, honey, ghee, jaggery, and cardamom is offered to Lord Murugan as prasad (blessed food).
Several important festivals are celebrated in honor of Lord Murugan:
This is one of the most important festivals celebrated by Tamil Hindus, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. It commemorates the occasion when Goddess Parvati gave Lord Murugan the Vel to vanquish the demon Surapadman. Devotees often perform the Kavadi ritual during this festival.
Celebrated in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June), this festival commemorates the birth of Lord Murugan.
A six-day festival celebrating Lord Murugan's victory over the demon Surapadman. The highlight is Soora Samharam, the enactment of the battle between Lord Murugan and the demon.
This festival celebrates the marriage of Lord Murugan with Deivayanai and Valli.
Celebrated during the Tamil month of Karthikai (November-December), this festival involves lighting lamps and is associated with Lord Murugan's manifestation as a form of light.
The worship of Lord Murugan continues to be a vibrant tradition, especially among Tamil communities worldwide, with devotees seeking his blessings for wisdom, courage, and spiritual enlightenment.