Navratri Day 5: Worshipping Maa Skandamata, the Mother of Skanda

The fifth day of Navratri is dedicated to the worship of Maa Skandamata, the fifth form of Goddess Durga. Her name is derived from the fact that she is the mother (Mata) of Skanda, or Kartikeya (the war god in Hindu mythology). Worshipping her on this day symbolizes the purity of a mother’s love and the power she wields.

The Significance of Maa Skandamata

Maa Skandamata is depicted with four arms. She is often seen carrying the infant Lord Skanda on her lap, holding a lotus in her two upper hands, and displaying the Varada Mudra (blessing gesture) in one of her lower hands. She is usually mounted on a lion.

• Purity and Power: She is the embodiment of purity, maternal affection, and peace. Her worship is believed to automatically bless the devotee with the worship of Lord Skanda as well, as he is always on her lap.
• Granting Wisdom and Prosperity: Devotees who worship Maa Skandamata with a pure heart are said to be blessed with wisdom, power, prosperity, and salvation. She is also revered for destroying the arrogance of the worshipper and bestowing divine grace.
• The Auspicious Color: The color traditionally associated with the fifth day of Navratri is Yellow. This color symbolizes joy, optimism, and cheerfulness, perfectly reflecting the nurturing and protective nature of the Goddess.

Rituals of the Fifth Day

On the fifth day, special pujas are performed, and devotees focus on the Vishuddha Chakra (Throat Chakra), which is associated with speech and purity. Offerings often include yellow flowers, bananas, and a sweet dish known as Kheer (rice pudding). Many women observing the fast wear the color yellow to honor the Goddess and draw in the auspicious energy of the day.

Worshipping Maa Skandamata encourages a devotee to look beyond worldly attachments and focus on self-purification and spiritual liberation.