Kartikeya,Son of Shiva and God of War
Carved into the northern side wall of the west side hall (Ashtamatrika Hall) of the East Wing, this sculptural panel depicts Kartikeya, one of Shiva’s sons, the brother of Ganesha, and the Hindu god of war. It is number 13 on the Elephanta Main Cave Ground Plan
In South India, Kartikeya is also revered as Murugan or Subramanya and is also associated with the nagas. His brother Ganesha is carved on the opposite side of the hall, on the southern side wall of the East Wing, while the long western wall is adorned with a panel depicting the Ashtamatrikas (Eight Divine Mothers).
In this panel, Kartikeya is portrayed as a youthful deity standing erect in a warrior-like pose while holding his signature weapon, a spear. Kartikeya’s iconography commonly depicts him either holding a spear or riding his vahana, Paravani, the peacock. In some traditions, he is shown with six heads and twelve arms. According to the mythology surrounding his birth, he was nurtured by six mothers, the Krittikas, who constantly argued over him. To appease them, he manifested six heads so that each mother could care for him simultaneously.
Kartikeya is known by many names, including Skanda, Subrahmanya, Kumara, Vishaka, Muruga, and Shanmukha (“the six-faced one”).
On his right, Brahma, recognizable by his three visible heads, is seated on a lotus pedestal. Behind Brahma stands a monkey-faced figure, likely Hanuman. Above them appear a celestial couple holding offerings, along with a damaged and unidentified figure.
On Kartikeya’s left stands the four-armed (chaturbhuja) Vishnu, holding some of his signature objects, including the Sudarshana Chakra (disc) and Shankha (conch).
Flying above Kartikeya’s head are two celestial beings, adding a divine and celebratory atmosphere to the composition.
Read also:
Angkor Wat: Kartikeya (Skanda) Riding a Peacock
Explore More About Elephanta Caves
– Cave Temples of Elephanta
– Elephanta Main Cave (Cave 1), Elephanta Main Cave Ground Plan
– The Mystery of Elephanta Cave 2
– The Smaller Caves of Elephanta: Caves 2, 3, 4, and 5
– How to Reach Elephanta Caves
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– Cave Temples of Badami
– Badami Cave 1, Badami Cave 2, Badami Cave 3, Badami Cave 4
– Durga Temple at Aihole
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