Shiva, one of the most important Hindu deities, is associated with creation, destruction, and transformation. He is often depicted with his consort, the goddess Parvati, and his two sons Ganesha and Kartikeya. Of Shiva’s two sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya, Ganesha is often considered the older and more favored son in many traditions.
Ganesha
Ganesha, also known as Ganapati and Vinayaka, is one of the most popular and revered Hindu deities. He is readily identifiable by his elephant head and rotund human body. Ganesha is associated with wisdom, intellect, and overcoming obstacles. He is worshipped before any major undertaking, at the start of any ritual or ceremony, and is considered the remover of obstacles.
There are many stories about Ganesha’s birth in Hindu mythology. The most common one states that Parvati created Ganesha out of clay or sandalwood paste and brought him to life to guard her privacy while she bathed. When Shiva returned, he did not recognize Ganesha and severed his head. When Parvati explained that this was their son, Shiva promised to replace Ganesha’s head with that of the first living being he encountered, which was an elephant.
Thus, Ganesha obtained his elephant head and was brought back to life by Shiva. Ganesha is sometimes known as Ekadanta, referring to the time he lost one of his tusks in an altercation with Parashurama, an avatar of Vishnu. Ganesha is often depicted holding modakas, his favorite sweet, in one hand and a broken tusk in the other.
Significance of Ganesha
As Shiva’s son, Ganesha has great significance in Hinduism:
- He is worshipped as the remover of obstacles and bringer of success.
- Prayers are always addressed to Ganesha before any major venture.
- His blessing is sought before beginning any significant task like buying a new house, taking an exam, or starting a business.
- Ganesha is invoked as a patron of arts and culture.
- Devotees believe he can bestow wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune.
- Ganesha’s name is often the first written by Hindu children.
The birthday of Ganesha is observed as the major Hindu festival Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated across India with great fervor and devotion. Giant statues of Ganesha are created for public worship during this festival.
Kartikeya
Kartikeya, also known as Subramaniam, Skanda, and Murugan, is the younger son of Shiva. He is a heroic warrior deity tasked with destroying demons and upholding dharma. Kartikeya is renowned for his valor, skills, and handsome features. He is especially popular in South India.
The myths related to Kartikeya’s birth vary significantly. In the most common version, Kartikeya was created by the gods when the demon Taraka was tormenting the world. Shiva was asked to create a son who could vanquish Taraka. When Shiva was disturbed during his meditation, his fury manifested a terrifying child who immediately set out to destroy Taraka.
In another version, Agni, the fire god, fertile the Ganga river with Shiva’s energy, producing a child that was claimed by both Parvati and the Krittikas – the six stars of the Pleiades cluster. The child came to be known as Kartikeya for his six mothers. Other versions attribute Kartikeya’s birth to just Parvati or even Svaha, Agni’s wife.
Significance of Kartikeya
As a son of Shiva, Kartikeya holds great significance in Hinduism:
- He is a brave warrior and destroyer of evil forces.
- Kartikeya commands the celestial armies and is believed to bestow courage.
- He is worshipped for success over enemies, both material and spiritual.
- Kartikeya is seen as a powerful bachelor god and is invoked by those seeking a good spouse.
- He is the special patron of warriors and often worshipped by soldiers.
- Kartikeya’s festivals like Thaipusam and Skanda Shasti are devoted to him.
Kartikeya is particularly beloved in South India, where many grand temples like Thiruparankundram, Thiruchendur, and Palani are dedicated to him. These temples attract millions of pilgrims annually who seek Kartikeya’s blessings and favor.
Differences Between Ganesha and Kartikeya
Though both are sons of Shiva and divine beings in their own right, there are some key differences between the depictions, significance, and worship of Ganesha versus Kartikeya:
| Ganesha | Kartikeya |
|---|---|
| Depicted with elephant head and rotund human body | Depicted as a handsome warrior riding a peacock |
| Associated with wisdom, intellect, and remover of obstacles | Associated with valor, war, and vanquishing demons |
| Worshipped before starting ventures and for success | Worshipped for courage, victory over enemies, and finding a spouse |
| Is the older son | Is the younger son |
| Remains a bachelor deity | Has two consort goddesses – Devasena and Valli |
| More popular in North and Central India | More popular in South India |
However, both Ganesha and Kartikeya are adored by Hindus and worshipped as sons of Shiva. They complement each other – Ganesha removes obstacles while Kartikeya leads the fight against demonic forces. Devotees often pray to both deities, seeking their divine blessings.
Conclusion
In summary, the two main sons of the Hindu god Shiva are Ganesha, the elder son known for his elephant head and wisdom, and Kartikeya, the younger son known as a brave warrior. Ganesha is worshipped for success in ventures while Kartikeya provides courage and strength against adversity. Though their myths and significance differ, both play important roles within the Hindu pantheon as sons of Shiva and divine beings in their own right.
The vast and intricate Hindu mythology contains many stories related to Ganesha and Kartikeya’s origins, powers, and exploits. Their birth stories often involve Parvati and associate the sons with different aspects of Shiva’s divinity. Ganesha is more popular in North India, and Kartikeya in South India, where major temples and festivals are devoted to each deity. But across all traditions, they are worshipped as removers of obstacles and givers of fortune, wisdom, courage, and skill.
Understanding Shiva’s sons provides insight into key Hindu beliefs, practices, and forms of worship. The tales and worship of Ganesha and Kartikeya form an integral part of the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology and culture. Their continued popularity and relevance is evident in the many devotional hymns, artworks, festivals, rituals, and traditions associated with both deities even today.