Tarkasur, also known as Tarakasura, is a demon in Hindu mythology. According to the mythological accounts, Tarkasur was the son of the sage Kashyapa and the demon princess Diti. He was known for his immense power and was invincible, having received a boon from Lord Brahma that he could only be defeated by the son of Lord Shiva.
Tarkasur, being an evil and powerful demon, sought to conquer the three worlds and defeat the gods. He created chaos and destruction, causing immense suffering to the beings in the universe. In response to his atrocities, the gods approached Lord Shiva and Parvati, requesting them to have a son who could defeat Tarkasur.
Lord Shiva and Parvati agreed and had a son named Kartikeya, also known as Skanda or Murugan, who was destined to defeat Tarkasur. Kartikeya grew up to become a powerful warrior and, with the blessings of the gods, went on to slay Tarkasur, bringing peace and prosperity to the universe.
Tarkasur represents the destructive and negative forces in the universe that must be overcome in order for good to prevail.
- Asura: Tarkasur is often referred to as an asura, which is a type of demon in Hindu mythology.
- Mahabharata: Tarkasur is mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, where he is said to have been killed by Lord Indra.
- Shiva: According to some versions of the story, Tarkasur obtained a boon from Lord Shiva, which made him nearly invincible.
- Three cities: Tarkasur was said to have had three cities: one made of gold, one made of silver, and one made of iron.
- Devas: Tarkasur was known for his enmity with the Devas, who are the gods in Hindu mythology.
- Tarakasura Moksha: According to some versions of the story, Tarkasur was granted liberation from the cycle of birth and death by Lord Shiva after being killed by him.
- Brahma: Tarkasur is said to have obtained a boon from Lord Brahma, which made him nearly invincible to all but a select few gods.
- Kartikeya: In some versions of the story, it is Lord Kartikeya who kills Tarkasur, rather than Lord Indra or Lord Shiva.