Angaraka (Mars) – Mythology, Astrology, Temples, and Prayer to Mangala Graha

 

Meaning & Identity

• Angaraka = “red‑hued” in Sanskrit, referring to Mars.
• Day of worship: Mangalavaaram (Tuesday), named after Mangala.
• Depicted as red in colour, war‑like, holding mace and spear, with abhaya mudra (protection) and varada mudra (boon‑giving).
• Vahana: Ram.

Mythological Origins

• Son of Bhudevi (Earth Goddess) and Lord Vishnu (Varaha Avatar).
• Alternate legend: Born from a drop of sweat from Lord Shiva’s brow falling on Earth.
• Hence also called Bhauma (son of Bhoomi).

Astrological Influence

• Governs skills of hands, equipment handling, energy, anger, strength, and analysis.
• Promotes brotherhood (bhratrukarakam).
• Friendly with Sun, Moon, and Jupiter.

In Literature & Music

• Muthuswami Dikshitar’s kriti in Suruti ragam praises Angaraka:
  “I take refuge in Angaraka, the Mandara tree for humble devotees.”

Temples of Angaraka

• Vaitheeswarankoil (Tamil Nadu):
• One of the Navagraha temples.
• Lord Shiva worshipped as Vaitheeswaran (God of Healing), who cured Angaraka.
• Mangalnath Temple (Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh):
• Overlooks the Kshipra River.
• As per Matsya Purana, birthplace of Mars.

Prayer to Mangala Graha

Dharanigarbha sambhutam

vidyutkaanti samaprabham

kumaram saktihastam

tammangalam pranamaamyaham

Meaning:
Born of Earth, shining like lightning, youthful, holding a spear – I bow to the auspicious one.