During one of the battles between the Asuras and the Devas, the latter were defeated several times by the former. The Devas were unable to resist the onslaught of the Asura forces. In despair, they approached Shiva and requested to give them a leader under whose heroic leadership they might gain victory over the Asuras. They surrendered themselves completely and prayed to Shiva. Shiva granted their request by creating the mighty warrior, Skanda, out of his own power. He at once assumed leadership of the celestial forces, inspired them and defeated the Asura forces. To celebrate that day the people started this festival, Thaipoosam.