Vamana Purana — Skanda Slays Taraka & Mahisha, Shloka 82
Skanda’s Svastyayana and the Slaying of Taraka and Mahisha
ततस्तु तेनाप्रतिमेन सासिना ते हंसवक्त्रप्रमुखा गणेश्वराः समातरश्चापि पराजिता रणे स्कन्दं भयार्त्ताः शरणं प्रपेदिरे
tatastu tenāpratimena sāsinā te haṃsavaktrapramukhā gaṇeśvarāḥ samātaraścāpi parājitā raṇe skandaṃ bhayārttāḥ śaraṇaṃ prapedire
Then, defeated in battle by that incomparable wielder of the sword, the chiefs of the Gaṇas—led by Haṃsavaktra—and their mothers as well, having been overcome in the fight, approached Skanda for refuge, distressed with fear.
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FAQs
They are chiefs among Śiva’s gaṇas (attendant hosts). “Haṃsavaktra” is a proper name meaning “swan-faced,” used here to single out a prominent gaṇa-leader within the Śaiva retinue.
In Skanda-centered battle episodes, Skanda functions as the field-commander and immediate protector of Śiva’s forces. The narrative emphasizes Skanda’s martial authority and his role as the rallying refuge when Śiva’s hosts are routed.
Sāsinā literally indicates “with a sword” or “sword-bearer,” highlighting the opponent’s weapon and prowess. In this chapter’s context, it points to the asura champion (identified next verse as Tāraka) as the one who routed the gaṇas.