Significance of Maa Skandamata
Maa Skandamata embodies maternal love, compassion, and wisdom. Mounted on a lion, she holds baby Kartikeya on her lap, radiating protection and nurturing energy. Worshipping her brings spiritual clarity, relief from life’s stresses, and fulfillment of wishes. She represents the Vishuddha Chakra and symbolizes purity, empathy, and joy.
The sacred color for Skandamata is green. Devotees, especially women, are encouraged to wear green attire and offer green shringar items to the goddess during the puja. This color signifies growth, harmony, and positive energy.
Story Behind Maa Skandamata
According to Hindu scriptures, the demon Tarkasur sought immortality and began wreaking havoc after receiving a boon from Lord Brahma. Lord Kartikeya, son of Goddess Parvati (Skandamata) and Lord Shiva, was appointed commander of the gods and ultimately defeated Tarkasur. From then on, Parvati in her maternal form is revered as Skandamata, the mother of Skanda (Kartikeya).
Navratri Day 5 Puja Rituals
- Wake up early and take a holy bath.
- Wear clean and beautiful clothes before starting the rituals.
- Light a diya in front of Maa Skandamata.
- Offer garlands, vermillion, and shringar items.
- Present five varieties of fruits, meetha paan, supari, elaichi, laung, and homemade sweets.
- Recite mantras from Durga Saptashati and perform the path diligently.
- Conduct evening aarti and offer bhog prasad to receive blessings.
Mantras and Stuti
Skandamata Mantra: “Simhasanagata Nityam Padmanchita Karadvaya, Shubhada Tu Sada Devi Skandamata Yashasvini.”
Skandamata Stuti: “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Skandamata Rupena Samsthita, Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.”
Remedies and Spiritual Benefits
Childless couples seeking blessings can offer food and clothes to young girls, perform hawan at home, and recite Durga Saptashati. Devotees who worship Skandamata with sincerity are believed to attain wish fulfillment, relief from tensions, and spiritual growth.