Shardiya Navratri, one of the most important festivals in Hinduism started on October 3, 2024. This festival lasts for nine days and devotees worship the nine forms of Maa Durga, culminating with Dussehra on October 12, 2024. The fifth day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Skandamata, the fifth incarnation of Ma Durga.
This day holds spiritual significance for devotees, who turn to Skandamata for blessings of motherhood, compassion and protection. Skandmata, known as the ‘Mother of Skanda’, embodies the essence of motherhood. She represents qualities such as love, sympathy and strength of a mother’s care. Her name translates to ‘lotus-throned goddess’, signifying her divine grace.
Goddess Skandamata is depicted riding a fierce lion, holding her child Murugan, also referred to as Kartikeya, in her lap. Clad in yellow attire, she is portrayed with four hands: in the upper two hands, she holds lotus flowers, while one of her right hands cradles Murugan, and the other is positioned in Abhaya Mudra, a gesture symbolizing protection and fearlessness. Goddess is often shown ensconced on a lotus flower, further emphasizing her purity and divinity.
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According to the ancient mythology, after Sati’s self-immolation lord Shiva retreated into deep meditation, while the demon Tarakasura’s tyranny over the gods prompted a desperate call for help. It was revealed that the only way to defeat Tarakasura was through the son of lord Shiva, who had yet to be born.
Goddess Parvati, the incarnation of Sati, underwent severe penance to win Shiva’s affection, leading to their union and the birth of Kartikeya, known for his valor, Kartikeya became the Commander-in-Chief of the gods and vanquished the demon Tarakasura. This win glorified his mother, Parvati, as Skandamata, the mother of Skanda, highlighting her role in nurturing such a powerful warrior.
The worship of Skandamata is believed to purify the minds of devotees, allowing them to connect with their spiritual essence. Observers often experience a sense of tranquility, entering the Vishudha Chakra, a state representing purity in all directions. This heightened state of consciousness enables devotees to dispel negative thoughts and immerse themselves in divine devotion.
On this auspicious day, worshippers find immense peace and fulfilment, leading to the realization of their deepest desires. The blessings of Maa Skandamata are said to bring prosperity, success and enlightenment, guiding devotees toward the path of salvation and divine happiness.
The evening of the fifth day starts with the sacred Skandamata Puja, performed using traditional items. Devotees prepare a clay pan filled with grains and water, along with a Kalasha containing holy water, coins and Durva grass, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness. On this day, a special Prasad is prepared, made from bananas and cardamom, which is offered to Goddess. The offerings also include fragrance, flowers, light, sweetness and food.
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