Why Kartikeya is not worshipped

Why Kartikeya is not worshipped? This question might be running through your head for a while now. In this article we will see all the possible reasons behind the relatively lower popularity of lord Kartikeya.

Kartikeya, also known as Murugan, Skanda, and Subrahmanya, is a significant figure in Hindu mythology, he is known primarily as the god of war and victory. Despite his popularity in South India, he is often overshadowed by other deities such as Ganesha and Shiva.

Regional Variations in Worship

Lord Kartikeya is worshipped primarily in South India as Murugan especially in Tamil Nadu. Festivals like Thai Poosam and Skanda Shasti celebrate his valor and divine attributes. However, in North India, his presence is less dominant, because he is considered as a celibate god focused on spiritual growth rather than worldly affairs. This regional disparity leads to a lack of recognition and worship in areas where other deities are worshipped.

Cultural Narratives and Myths

The stories surrounding Kartikeya often depict him in a competitive light against Ganesha, which can contribute to his underappreciation. For instance, the story where Ganesha wins a race around the universe just by walking around their parents, Shiva and Parvathi, while Kartikeya physically travels around the world on his peacock to show he is better than his brother. This narrative may have led to negative perceptions about lord Kartikeya’s and in turn reduce his popularity.

Reason why Kartikeya is not worshipped in North

In many traditions, particularly in North India, Kartikeya is considered as a celibate deity. This might be because Kartikeya is mistaken to be lord Ayyappa, lord Shiva’s third son and due to this mistaken identity he is perceived as a god who renounced the world rather than the mighty commander of the gods. His popularity declined among the people who want to be on a spiritual path while staying in a family background.

Why Kartikeya is not worshipped – The Historical Reason

Historically, many scriptures detailing rituals and worship practices related to Kartikeya have been lost or destroyed over time. This loss has contributed to a decline in formal worship practices dedicated to him. While there are still temples and festivals celebrating him, the absence of widespread textual references limits his visibility compared to more prominent deities.

Conclusion

While Lord Kartikeya holds an essential place within Hindu mythology as a symbol of valor and youthfulness, various factors contribute to his lesser degree of worship compared to other deities like Ganesha and Shiva. Regional variations, cultural narratives emphasizing competition with other gods, perceptions of celibacy, and historical losses of worship practices all play significant roles in shaping the contemporary landscape of Hindu devotion. Understanding these dynamics can foster a deeper appreciation for Kartikeya’s contributions to Hindu spirituality and mythology.

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