Significance of Maa Kushmanda
The name Kushmanda comes from three Sanskrit words: Ku (little), Ushma (energy), and Anda (cosmic egg). According to Hindu belief, she is the creator of the universe who dispelled darkness with her divine smile. Maa Kushmanda is often depicted with eight hands, riding a lion, holding a lotus, kamandal, bow, arrow, amrit kalash, japa mala, gada, and chakra. She is also known as Ashtabhuja Devi and governs the Anahata or Heart Chakra, symbolizing compassion and healing.
Yellow is the color associated with Day 4 of Navratri. Devotees adorn yellow attire and offer yellow flowers, bangles, sarees, and chunni to please the goddess. The color is believed to radiate energy, positivity, and divine warmth.
The Story of Maa Kushmanda
According to scriptures, before creation, the universe was engulfed in darkness. It was Maa Kushmanda who created the cosmos with her smile, filling it with light and life. She is also believed to be the source of energy for the Sun, symbolizing vitality and sustenance. Her presence is worshipped as the ultimate source of cosmic balance.
Puja Vidhi for Day 4
Devotees perform elaborate rituals on this day to seek the blessings of the goddess:
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean yellow clothes.
- Light a diya with desi ghee and offer vermilion and garlands to Maa Kushmanda.
- Offer five types of seasonal fruits along with meetha paan, supari, laung, and elaichi.
- Recite Durga Chalisa, Durga Saptashati Path, and mantras dedicated to the goddess.
- Perform aarti and offer sattvik food as bhog before breaking the fast in the evening.
Maa Kushmanda Mantra
सुरासम्पूर्णकलशं रुधिराप्लुतमेव च। दधाना हस्तपद्माभ्यां कूष्माण्डा शुभदास्तु मे॥
Chanting this mantra is believed to remove negativity, relieve stress, and bring peace of mind.
Why Worship Maa Kushmanda?
Devotees believe that praying to Maa Kushmanda helps in overcoming depression, fear, and past regrets. Her worship is said to fill one’s life with health, prosperity, and courage. Spiritual practitioners also link her blessings with inner healing and energy balance, making her puja essential during Navratri.