Once upon a time, in the divine realms of Mount Kailash, lived Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati with their two sons - Lord Kartikeya and Lord Ganesha. It was a place of serenity where life was peaceful and the air echoed with the sound of divine chants.

One day, the sage Narada, known for his wisdom and knowledge, came to visit them. He brought with him a special fruit, a golden mango, glowing with divine radiance. This was no ordinary fruit; it was the 'Gnana Pazham,' the fruit of wisdom.

Lord Shiva was intrigued by the enchanting appearance of the mango. Sage Narada explained the significance of the fruit, telling the Lord that it was a unique one, filled with the essence of wisdom and knowledge.

Lord Shiva, being a loving father, decided to give this special fruit to his sons. However, Sage Narada advised him against splitting the fruit because dividing it would decrease its divine power.

The dilemma of whom to give this fruit to arose. Both his sons were equally deserving. Lord Shiva, in his divine wisdom, decided to arrange a competition between Kartikeya and Ganesha.

The competition was quite simple: Whoever could circle the world first would get the fruit of wisdom. The challenge was set, and both the sons agreed to their father's condition.

Without wasting a moment, Lord Kartikeya, also known as Lord Muruga, mounted his peacock, the divine vehicle assigned to him, ready to race around the world. His determination shone bright in his eyes, and he set off to win the fruit.

Lord Ganesha, on the other hand, was contemplative. He was known for his intelligence and wit. Instead of rushing off like his brother, he began pondering deeply about the competition.

Looking at his parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who were watching him with expectant eyes, Ganesha had an idea. He believed his parents represented his world. So, he decided to circle around them.

With a heart full of love and devotion, Lord Ganesha started walking around his parents. His sincerity and faith were evident in his eyes as he completed the journey around them.

He then humbly pointed out that he had won the challenge. Surprised, Lord Shiva asked him to explain his logic. Ganesha replied, "In our scriptures, it is said that parents are the world to their children. Therefore, circling you meant circling the world."

Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were touched by Ganesha’s wisdom, and understanding. Satisfied with his interpretation, they declared him as the winner and handed him the fruit of wisdom.

Meanwhile, Lord Muruga, unaware of what had transpired at Mount Kailash, was still circling the physical world on his peacock. He was determined to win the challenge and return home victorious.

After a while, Lord Muruga completed his trip around the world. Exhausted but satisfied, he returned to Mount Kailash, hoping to receive the fruit of wisdom.

But to his surprise, he found that Lord Ganesha had already won the fruit. When he learned how Ganesha won, initial disappointment clouded Lord Muruga's face.

However, understanding his brother's wisdom and the love for their parents that influenced his actions, Muruga accepted the outcome. He embraced his brother, exhibiting the love and affection they had for each other.

The story of Lord Ganesha and Lord Muruga teaches us that wisdom is not only about knowledge; it is about understanding, respect, and love. It also teaches us the importance of our parents in our lives.

And thus, the story of Ganesha, Muruga, and the mango symbolized the divine wisdom that transcends worldly knowledge. It is a tale that continues to inspire and enlighten people even today.

The story is passed from generation to generation and is particularly told during the festival of Pongal, celebrated in honor of Lord Muruga. The devotees remember this divine event and pass the wisdom to their children.

Believed to be the foundation of Palani temple, this story is of great significance to all devotees of Lord Muruga. The devotees throng in large numbers to the temple to remember this divine event and seek the blessings of Lord Muruga.

In the end, the story serves as a reminder of the divine wisdom and knowledge that comes from understanding love and respect, rather than through physical challenges or worldly achievements.

Though Lord Muruga lost the competition, he won the hearts of his parents and followers with his dedication and determination. And lord Ganesh's wisdom continues to enlighten the followers, teaching them the importance of parents and the world within.

Therefore, the story of Muruga, Ganesha, and the mango isn't merely about winning and losing. It is about understanding the essence of wisdom and the different perspectives from which we can gain it.

It is a tale that reveals the depth of divine wisdom, the importance of respect and love for parents, and the power of perspective. It emphasizes that wisdom is born not just through experiences but through understanding and reverence.

Thus, the essence of the story lies in the lesson it teaches – the understanding that wisdom is not obtained merely by completing great feats but by realizing the importance of love, respect, and reverence in our lives.