En route to my primary school, there used to be this little Muruga temple. I used to stop there while returning home and offer a quick prayer. Along with his brother Ganesha, they have always been my Ishta Devatas.
Chanting Kanda Sashti Kavacham regularly and visiting the temple nearby used to be a routine during my 9th-12th grades. I strongly believe in the power of this chant and have experienced its impact on my mental strength.
Sometimes, I wonder if the lines of Kanda Sashti Kavacham have a similar interpretation as that of body scan relaxation/guided meditation.
I had a small frame with a picture of Muruga that we bought from Thiruchendur long ago. The frame had rusted and I was looking to buy a new picture. While visiting Giri Stores in JP Nagar a few weeks back, I asked if they had a small picture. They brought me one that was slightly bigger than what I wanted. But the image of the Lord was so clear and beautiful that I couldn't resist. I was a bit concerned if the frame would fit in the limited space on my Pooja shelf. As I came home and placed it, it fitted so perfectly in the space that I had planned. Felt so happy that day!
I recently heard in a podcast that the devatas we pray to keep changing depending on what we seek or desire. In the past couple of years, I have started to connect more strongly with Hanuman and Muruga - both embody strength and resilience.
Today, being Thai Poosam, made sakkarai pongal for Neivedyam for dear Muruga. Chanted Kanda Sashti Kavacham and listened to Soolamangalam sisters' version of Guru Kavacham. The magic and divinity in their voice bring out powerful vibrations!
Being a Saturday, chanted Hanuman Chalisa as well.