Weekend Quiz: Which of the five Mahakavyas tells the story of the birth of Shiva’s son Kartikeya?

Hint: It was written by one of ancient India’s greatest playwright and dramatist.

Oct 17, 2020 · 03:30 pm

Weekend Quiz: Which of the five Mahakavyas tells the story of the birth of Shiva’s son Kartikeya? — This 18th-century Pahari painting shows Kartikey slaying Tarakasura in a battle | Bharat Kala Bhavan, BHU

Displayed at the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, Varanasi, this 18th-century Pahari painting from Guler (Himachal Pradesh) shows Kartikeya, the son of Shiva and Parvati, slaying Tarakasura demon in a battle.

A powerful demon, Tarakasura was blessed with a boon of invincibility. As per the terms of the boon, he could only be vanquished by a child of Shiva. However, Shiva, after the loss of his partner Sati, had dedicated himself to meditation, renouncing the desire for love. The gods then employed the services of Kama, to unite Shiva and Parvati. Their union resulted in the birth of Kartikeya, commonly known as the war god.

Here is a question for you.

This quiz has been created by the Heritage Lab and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, BHU.

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