Tommorow is Murugan's thirukalyanam and the final day of some ending their Viratham. According to legend, Lord Murugan is married to two deities, each representing a unique aspect of devotion and love. The first of these deities is Devasena (also known as Devayani or Deivanai), the daughter of Lord Indra, while the second is Valli, the daughter of a tribal chief, discovered in a pit when gathering edible tubers of the valli plant.

Devasena’s marriage to Lord Murugan was gifted by Indra himself after Murugan’s triumph over the demons. In her previous birth, Devasena was said to be the daughter of Vishnu, who had also performed penance to have her united with Murugan. Their wedding is often described as the Vaidika type, embodying the utmost orthodoxy and sanctity. The Vana Parva of the Mahabharata narrates this union:

Realising that Skanda (another name for Murugan) was divinely destined to be Devasena’s husband, Indra brought her before him, adorned in fine garments. Addressing Skanda, Indra said, “O foremost of gods, this lady was destined to be thy bride by Brahma himself even before thy birth. Accept her hand with the sacred marital hymns.” Skanda accepted her hand in marriage, with Vrihaspati, the devaguru, conducting the prayers and sacrificial offerings.

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Known by many names ; Shashthi, Lakshmi, Asa, Sukhaprada, Sinivali, Kuhu, Saivritti, and Aparajita - Devasena symbolizes prosperity and devotion. Upon their union, Devasena’s embodiment of abundance and well-being became eternally bound to Skanda, as she served him with unwavering dedication and grace.

Valli and Devasena represent the Iccha Shakti (the energy of will and desire) and Kriya Shakti (the energy of action and transformation) of Lord Murugan. Iccha Shakti fuels our desires and aspirations, while Kriya Shakti drives the actions needed to fulfill them. When aligned with Jnana Shakti, the wisdom of the self, these energies lead to a life that is both purposeful and free from attachment. However, when these energies are driven by apurnata (incompleteness) or ignorance, we become bound by the forces of maya, or illusion, which can weigh down our spirit, leading to a sense of loss and inner turmoil. These bindings, tied to worldly identities and duties, create a cycle of attachment, drawing us away from our inner ananda (blissful self).

The Thirukalyanam (divine marriage) of Lord Murugan with Valli and Devasena represents the harmonious union of these energies ; will, wisdom, and action, guided by divine knowledge. It is a reminder that only when we root our actions in the wisdom of the self can Iccha and Kriya Shakti truly manifest a divine, purposeful life. This cosmic marriage signifies not just a union but the balance of life’s three sacred energies, guiding us to live a life of joy, liberation, and fulfillment.

On this Thirukalyanam day, may we all find inspiration to unite our will, wisdom, and action, celebrating the divine within and creating a life that reflects Murugan’s sacred lila (play) of love, valor, and dharma.

Source / Image Credit : tiruchendur_subramaniyan