Ancient Dravidian in origin (see Dravidians), Murugan or Murukan is an important god among the Tamils (see Tamil Mythology) of southern India. Sometimes he seems to be a version of the war god Skanda (see Kārttikeya), the six-headed son of Śiva (see Śiva). His roots are more likely to be found in fertility worship, however. He is clearly associated with love and youthfulness, as he rides, handsome and young looking. on his peacock, in the company of young women. His exploits as Skanda are described in the Mahābhārata (see Mahābhārata) and the Rāmāyaṇa (see Rāmāyaṇa).

A Dictionary of Asian Mythology. Copyright © 2001, 2002 by David Leeming. All rights reserved.