Credit: Ai (Credit: Ai)
Regional News: The fifth day of Navratri is celebrated in honor of Maa Skandamata, the gentle and motherly form of Goddess Durga. She is depicted seated on a lion with her son, Lord Kartikeya, on her lap. In her hands, she holds lotus flowers, a symbol of purity and prosperity. Devotees believe that praying to her helps remove sorrows, brings mental clarity, and fills life with happiness. Her presence represents motherhood, love, and blessings for children.
Maa Skandamata is associated with the Vishuddha Chakra, the energy point that enhances purity and wisdom. Devotees who worship her with full devotion are said to experience peace of mind and relief from troubles. She grants clarity to those who seek spiritual knowledge. For families struggling with challenges, her worship is believed to bring healing, unity, and divine support. She is never said to send a devotee back empty-handed.
On the fifth day of Navratri, the color green holds special importance. Green symbolizes growth, harmony, and fertility. Female devotees are encouraged to wear green sarees or dresses during the puja. Offerings of green bangles, clothes, and flowers are considered especially auspicious for Maa Skandamata. Wearing this color is also believed to attract good fortune, prosperity, and new beginnings.
The legend tells of a demon named Tarkasur, who received a boon from Lord Brahma that only Lord Shiva’s son could kill him. Believing Shiva would never marry, Tarkasur thought he was invincible. However, Goddess Parvati, born as the daughter of Himalaya, married Lord Shiva and gave birth to Lord Kartikeya. With his great power, Kartikeya killed Tarkasur, restoring balance in the universe. From that day, Parvati came to be worshipped as Skandamata, the mother of Skanda (Kartikeya).
Devotees begin the day with a holy bath and wear clean clothes. They place an idol or image of Maa Skandamata on a decorated altar and light a diya. Offerings include flowers, fruits, sweets, betel leaves, and spices like cardamom and clove. Chanting Durga Saptashati Path and Skandamata mantras forms an essential part of the worship. Evening puja and aarti are also performed before breaking the fast with prasad.
The special mantra for Maa Skandamata is: “Simhasanagata Nityam Padmanchita Karadvaya, Shubhada Tu Sada Devi Skandamata Yashasvini.” Devotees also recite the stuti: “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Skandamata Rupena Samsthita, Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.” Chanting these brings peace, prosperity, and fulfillment of wishes. Believers say these mantras create a divine shield of protection around families.
On this day, couples without children are advised to offer food and clothes to young girls. Performing hawan, reciting Durga Saptashati, and donating green items like clothes or bangles bring blessings of motherhood. Fasting with sincerity and ending it with aarti ensures Maa Skandamata’s special grace. Devotees believe her blessings remove life’s obstacles and fill homes with joy.
Copyright © 2025 Top Indian News
