Maa Skandamata: Navratri Fifth Day Goddess
On the 5th day of Navratri, Skandamata is worshipped. Maa Parvati is the mother of Kartikeya (Bhagwan Skanda) that’s why she is known as Skand Mata. She is depicted with four arms, cradling the six-faced infant Kumar Kartikeya in her lap. In her upper right and left hands, she holds lotus flowers. She is also known as ‘Padmasana Devi’ because she meditates while seated on a lotus flower.
Skandamata Maa Navratri Puja Tithi 2023: Shardiya Navratri – 19th October 2023, Thursday
NOTE: The exact time for Puja may vary from location to location. Consult a professional Pandit for more accurate Puja timing in your country/city/town/village.
Beej Mantra – “ओम ह्रीं साहस्कंदमात्र्यै नमः ||”
Story Behind Skandamata Devi
Following Sati’s tragic self-immolation, Lord Shiva retreated from worldly affairs and began an intense period of meditation and seclusion. In the meantime, the Asur Tarakasura undertook a penance, hoping to secure the boon of immortality from Lord Brahma. However, when Brahma refused this request, Tarakasura used his cunningness to ask for a unique boon – he would only meet his end at the hands of Shiva’s son. Brahma granted him this unexpected boon.
Aware of Shiva’s vow to remain celibate and never marry, the gods became alarmed at Tarakasura’s clever move. In search of a solution, they turned to Lord Vishnu. With the intention of having Shiva accept Parvati as His consort, the gods instructed her to engage in severe austerities to win his favour.
Parvati, driven by her unwavering determination and devotion, undertook intense penance. Her dedication was so profound that it pleased Lord Shiva, who agreed to accept her as His wife. The divine union resulted in the birth of Kartikeya. Kartikeya, also known as Skanda, ultimately assumed the responsibility of vanquishing Tarakasura after a lengthy battle, bringing an end to the demon’s tyranny. The gods glorified him and the mother (Parvati) who gave birth to such a heroic son. Therefore, Paravati was hailed as Skandamata, the mother of Skanda who killed the giant demon Tarkasura.
Maa Skandamata Poojan Vidhi
On the fifth night of Navratri, the worship of Skandamata is performed using sacred items. A clay pan is used as the base, and layers of mud and grains are placed in it. A Kalasha filled with holy water, betel nuts, coins, rice with turmeric, and Durba grass is arranged in the base. Finally, five mango tree leaves are positioned around the Kalasha’s neck, and a coconut covers it.
Bhog for Maa Skandamata
On the fifth day of the Navratra Puja, devotees offer banana bhog and grapes to Maa Skandamata as these are her favourite fruits.
For a detailed explanation related to Navratra Puja Vidhi, you can speak to our expert pundits and astrologers at NamoAstro any time.
Prarthana
सिंहासनगता नित्यं पद्माज्चित करद्वया। शुभदास्तु सदा देवी स्कन्दमाता यशस्विनी॥
Stuti
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु माँ स्कन्दमाता रूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥
Significance of Worshipping Maa Skandamata
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On the fifth day of Durga Pooja, worshippers enter the ‘Vishudha Chakra,’ symbolising purity in all directions. In this state, they attain undisturbed thoughts, shedding the impurities and external worries.
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She is the Goddess of Purity. By praying to her, worshippers can embark on a serene journey through the universe to calm their souls and minds.
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Skandamata is considered the mother of six knowledge systems or philosophies: Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, Yoga, Vedanta and Mimamsa. When we offer our prayers to Skandamata, we are essentially paying homage to the source of all wisdom. This connection with Skandamata leads us on a path to higher learning and enlightenment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should one do to connect with the divine energy of Skandmata?
A: To connect with Skandamata’s divine energy, one should perform puja with devotion and sincerity, recite her mantras and meditate on her loving and nurturing aspect. Offering pure-hearted prayers and seeking her guidance can deepen the connection.
