Skanda in South India: Skanda is one of the most revered deities in the Southern State of Tamilnadu. Also known by other names such as Subramanyan and Murugan, he is revered in shrines in Tamilnadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.	Attributes of Skanda Skanda is regarded as the supreme commander of the Gods and the destroyer of evil forces. He is also regarded as the epitome of knowledge.
Skanda in Tamil and Sanskrit Literature  Skanda has been euologized by ancient Tamil Sangam literature (early 1st millennium CE),  by the sanskrit hymns of Aadi Sankara, the Tiruppugazh tamil hymns of Arunagirinathar and more.	Murugan in Classical and Popular Music  Tamil kritis of 20th century composer Papanasam Sivan,  sanskrit kritis of the 18th century compose Muthuswamy Deekshitar as well as several popular songs are centered around Skanda.
Murugan Temples in Tamilnadu Skanda is enshrined in several forms, in several temples across the state of Tamilnadu. There is a shrine to Skanda in all Saivite temples in the state.	Story of the birth of Skanda The Skanda Purana and Kumara Sambhavam in sanskrit, as well as Kanda Puranam in Tamil narrate the colorful legend of Skanda's birth.
Story of Skanda's marriage with Valli: Murugan's marriage with Valli is celebrated at Tiruttani, Vallimalai, Velimalai and other shrines. An interesting legend surrounds this divine marriage.	Aarupadai Veedu Temples of Skanda: 6 ancient temples of Tamilnadu, revered in the 2000 year old Sangam literature are hailed as the favorite Abodes of Skanda revered by Tamils all over the world.