Navratri Day 4: Significance of Maa Kushmanda and Step-by-Step Puja Rituals

New Delhi: Today, on March 22, 2026, on the fourth day of Chaitra Navratri, Maa Kushmanda is worshipped. This fourth form of Maa Durga is very special, as it is said that when there was darkness in the universe, then with her smile, Maa gave birth to the sun and the entire creation. Therefore she is considered the goddess of creation. 

When is Goddess Kushmanda worshiped and what is its significance?

The fourth date of Chaitra Navratri in 2026, i.e., Chaturthi, is on Sunday, 22 March. Worship of Maa Kushmanda on this day brings positive energy in life, increases happiness, good health and blessings of wealth and prosperity. By worshiping with a true heart, all obstacles are removed, and the person gets wisdom, strength and self-confidence.

How should puja be performed?

Wake up early in the morning, take bath, wear clean clothes. Clean the place of worship thoroughly and keep a photo or idol of Maa Kushmanda. Light a ghee lamp, put incense sticks. Offer red or yellow flowers and incense. Offer bhog and chant the mantra – the special mantra is to chant “Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah” 108 times. Perform Aarti after the puja is over. Maintain a virtuous atmosphere in the house, keep the mind calm.

Which food does Maa like the most?

Maa Kushmanda likes sweets very much. Offering Malpua, Halwa, curd, kheer or saffron rice is considered very auspicious. Some people also offer things made from pumpkin (Kushmand), because the name is also related to it. 

Which color is most auspicious on this day?

The orange color is considered best on the fourth day. This color symbolizes energy, enthusiasm, creativity and spiritual power. Yellow color is also worn in many places, which gives shine and wisdom like the sun. People worship by wearing orange or yellow clothes, decorating the house with flowers—all this further strengthens the energy of the maa.

What are the benefits of worship?

According to beliefs, worshiping Goddess Kushmanda gives a person intelligence, strength and happiness. Problems of life reduce, negativity goes away and confidence increases a lot. This form reminds us that the creative power of creation is within us too. We just have to awaken it.

Is Navratri just an occasion for worship or something else too?

Navratri is not just about rituals, but also a time to improve oneself. During these nine days, fasting, eating satvik food, having good thoughts, giving up anger and jealousy. All this cleans the mind, body and soul. This is a kind of recharge, where we stay away from bad habits and adopt a positive lifestyle.

What is the biggest message of this day?

Maa Kushmanda teaches us how much a small smile can change. How important are positive thinking and energy in life. Every work done with devotion makes us stronger and gives us courage to move forward. This message is very useful in today's stressful times - smile, be positive, and with maa's grace everything will be fine. Jai Maa Kushmanda! May there be happiness in everyone's life.