Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, during the festive period of Navratri, sought the blessings of Goddess Skandmata, a significant deity in Hindu mythology symbolizing the embodiment of motherly love and grace. The Prime Minister’s reverence for Skandmata was conveyed through a heartfelt message and the recital of prayers (stuti) dedicated to the Goddess.
In a social media post, Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep connection with the spiritual significance of Navratri and the worship of Skandmata. His words were a testament to his spiritual devotion and a reflection of the importance of the Goddess in Indian culture.
“During the auspicious occasion of Navratri, devotees partake in special worship dedicated to Goddess Skandmata, revered as the embodiment of motherly love.” It is my wish that the Mother Goddess blesses all her worshipers with a new consciousness and new creation,” the Prime Minister conveyed in his post.
Goddess Skandmata, the fifth among the Navadurga forms of Mahadevi, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Her name originates from “Skanda,” an alternate appellation for the war god Kartikeya, and “Mātā,” which signifies mother. The worship of Skandmata takes place on the fifth day of Navaratri, signifying her importance in the nine-day festival.
Symbolism and Significance
Skandmata is typically depicted as a four-armed deity with three eyes, riding on a lion. One of her hands is in the Abhayamudra position, symbolizing the dispelling of fear, while the other cradles her infant son, Skanda (Kartikeya). Her remaining two hands often hold lotus flowers. Her light complexion and her association with a lotus occasionally earn her the name Padamasani.
Devotees turn to Skandmata with deep reverence, believing that her blessings bring salvation, power, prosperity, and treasures. It is said that even the illiterate when devoted to her, can attain oceans of wisdom. Her worship is believed to purify the heart, requiring devotees to have control over their senses and minds while offering single-pointed devotion.
Skandmata’s significance is underscored by the understanding that when she is worshiped, her son Lord Skanda (Kartikeya) is also adored, bestowing double blessings upon devotees. Selfless devotion to her is said to result in power and prosperity. Devotees who seek her grace shine with divine splendor, and her worship is ultimately seen as a path to salvation. Skandmata is often referred to as “The Goddess of Fire.”
