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Skanda

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in Hindu mythology, was the child of Rudra (Siva) and the sisters Ganga and Uma, the former of whom was the consort of all the gods, the latter of Rudra alone. Skanda was taken in charge at his birth by the stars Kartigas, who were six nymphs, and thus obtained his other name, Kuartikeya. He was washed and nourished, and became so bright that he eclipsed the brilliancy of the sun. He received six heads and twelve arms, and was appointed leader of the heavenly armies when they should march against the evil demons and spirits of the underworld. Numerous pagodas were erected to him in India, in which he was always represented as accompanied by his consorts Devanei and Velliamen. The name Skanda signifies the rapidly conquering one.