Murugan Puja, especially performed on the auspicious occasion of Vaikasi Visakam, is a significant celebration dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya, Subrahmanya, or Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This day commemorates the divine birth of Lord Murugan under the Visakam nakshatra in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May–June).
Lord Murugan is revered as the God of War and Victory, the embodiment of wisdom, and the protector of dharma. Vaikasi Visakam is celebrated with great devotion in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and by Tamil communities worldwide.
On this day, devotees begin early with ritual purification, taking a holy bath and cleaning the puja space. A picture or idol of Lord Murugan is placed on a decorated altar. The idol is adorned with sandal paste, turmeric, kumkum, flowers (especially Arali and Sevvanthi), and garlands.
Offerings typically include:
- Fruits like bananas and pomegranates
- Paanakam (a jaggery-based drink)
- Sweet pongal, murukku, and other traditional sweets
- Coconut, betel leaves, and incense sticks
During the puja, Murugan Sahasranamam, Skanda Shashti Kavacham, or Kandar Alankaram are chanted to invoke the Lord’s blessings. The aarti is performed with camphor, and devotees pray for courage, success, good health, and spiritual upliftment.
In temples, grand processions of Lord Murugan in his chariot (Vel or peacock vahanam) are carried out with music and devotion. Special abhishekam (sacred bathing) with milk, honey, curd, and turmeric is performed.
Murugan Puja on Vaikasi Visakam is believed to destroy negative karma, remove obstacles, and bestow victory in all spheres of life. It is a time of spiritual rejuvenation and devotional surrender to the divine warrior god.
