As Navratri, the nine-night Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the divine feminine, progresses, we find ourselves on the fourth day, dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda. This day is significant for its celebration of the creator of the universe and her immense power. In this article, we will explore the significance of Goddess Kushmanda and the mantra associated with her.
Goddess Kushmanda: The Creator of the Universe
On the fourth day of Navratri, the worshippers revere the divine form of Goddess Kushmanda. This day holds special significance as it aligns the seeker’s consciousness with the ‘Anahat’ Chakra, the heart chakra. It is crucial to approach the worship with a pure and undisturbed mind, keeping the image of Goddess Kushmanda in one’s thoughts.
Goddess Kushmanda, the primordial creator of the universe, brought it into existence when it was yet formless. She is the original source of the universe’s power, residing within the inner realm of the solar system.
The radiance emanating from her being illuminates all ten directions, casting a luminous glow that engulfs the entire universe. The divine Mother is recognized by her eight arms, earning her the epithet ‘Ashtabhuja Devi.
In her seven hands, she wields a Kamandal (water pot), bow, arrow, lotus flower, a pot of nectar, chakra (discus), and mace. The eighth hand holds a rosary, bestowing blessings of achievement and abundance upon her devotees. She rides a mighty lion, symbolizing her fearlessness and strength.
Significance of the Fourth Day of Navratri
On the fourth day of Navratri, devotees honor Goddess Kushmanda to seek her blessings and invoke her creative energy. This day represents the activation of the divine chakra within the human body, located at the Manipura or solar plexus region, where the fire element resides. Worshiping Goddess Kushmanda is believed to ignite this fire energy, fostering physical and spiritual growth.
Mantra for Goddess Kushmanda
Devotees often recite the following mantra to seek the blessings of Goddess Kushmanda:
“ॐ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः।”
Transliteration: “Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah.”
Meaning: This mantra pays homage to Goddess Kushmanda, acknowledging her divine presence and seeking her blessings. By chanting this mantra, devotees express their devotion and request her guidance and protection.
Devotees may recite this mantra with utmost sincerity and devotion during their Navratri prayers and rituals.
Final Thought
The fourth day of Navratri is a significant occasion for worshipping Goddess Kushmanda, the creator of the universe. Devotees celebrate her radiant and benevolent presence, seeking her blessings for spiritual and physical growth. The mantra “Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah” is chanted to invoke her divine energy and protection. As Navratri progresses, it is an opportunity to connect with the divine and reflect on the creative forces that shape our universe and our lives.
