Day 5 Navratri Goddess: Navratri, a Hindu festival celebrated over nine nights and ten days, is dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine. Each day is associated with a different form of Goddess Durga, and on Day 5, the devotees venerate Skandamata, the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya). Skandamata is a significant manifestation of the divine feminine, and her worship is accompanied by several fascinating facts and stories. Let’s explore some of the intriguing aspects of the Day 5 Navratri Goddess, Skandamata:
1. Skandamata’s Iconography:
Skandamata is often depicted riding a lion and carrying the infant Lord Skanda in her lap. She has four arms, holding lotus flowers in two of them and the other two arms are in Abhaya Mudra (blessing gesture) and Varada Mudra (offering of boons).
2. The Connection to Lord Kartikeya:
Skandamata is the divine mother of Lord Kartikeya, also known as Skanda or Murugan. Lord Kartikeya is a revered deity in Hinduism, particularly in South India. His birth and upbringing are attributed to Skandamata.
3. The Protector of Devotees:
Devotees believe that worshipping Skandamata brings protection, courage, and fearlessness. She is considered a guardian who shields her devotees from harm and helps them navigate through challenges.
4. The Story of Her Birth:
According to Hindu mythology, Skandamata was born when the demon Tarakasura threatened the gods. They were unable to defeat him, but it was prophesied that Tarakasura could only be killed by the son of Lord Shiva. Skandamata’s divine birth took place as a response to this crisis, and she eventually gave birth to Lord Kartikeya, who defeated Tarakasura.
5. The Color and Offering:
On the fifth day of Navratri, it is customary to wear the color Gray, which symbolizes the strength and power of the goddess. Devotees offer bananas to Skandamata as it is believed to be her favorite fruit.
6. The Mantra for Skandamata:
The mantra for Skandamata is: “ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः” (Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah)
Reciting this mantra is thought to summon her divine blessings and safeguarding presence.
7. Celebrations during Navratri:
Skandamata’s worship is an essential part of Navratri celebrations. Devotees gather at temples, conduct special pujas, and recite hymns and prayers dedicated to her. The festivities often include cultural performances and processions.
8. The Divine Mother’s Nurturing Aspect:
Skandamata represents the nurturing and motherly aspect of the divine. Her love and care for her son, Lord Kartikeya, symbolize the affection and support that mothers provide to their children.
9. The Significance of Matru Navami:
The ninth day of Navratri, known as Matru Navami, is devoted to Skandamata and is a day to honor mothers. Many people offer their respects and gifts to their own mothers on this day.
10. The Spiritual Message:
Skandamata’s worship carries a spiritual message of the importance of maternal love, protection, and the strength that mothers provide in our lives. Her divine presence reminds us of the profound significance of the mother-child relationship.
On Day 5 of Navratri, devotees immerse themselves in the divine energy of Skandamata, seeking her blessings, protection, and the embodiment of maternal love. This celebration of the motherly aspect of the divine reinforces the significance of the mother’s role in our lives and serves as a source of inspiration and strength for all.
