Murugan is widely revered as the God of the Tamil people. The Tamil deity Murugan was later syncretised with the Vedic Subrahmanya after the Sangam era. Murugan, Subrahmanya, and Kartikeya all refer to the same deity. Iconography varies, but he is usually shown young, with a peacock (Paravani) and holding a Vel (spear). Sometimes depicted with six heads, symbolizing legends of his birth. Known as a philosopher-warrior who defeated Tarakasura, Simhamukha, and Surapadma. Taught the values of ethical living and Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy. Celebrated by many poet-saints, especially Arunagirinathar. An ancient deity, traceable back to the Vedic period. Revered as Palaniappa, the guardian deity of the Kurinji region. Sangam literature has major works on him, such as Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai and Thirupugal. Archaeological finds from the 1st century CE and earlier show his early importance, often alongside Agni. Worship appears across many medieval temples, including Ellora and Elephanta Caves.