As Dussehra Sharannavaratri celebrations continue across the country, today marks the fifth day of Navratri, known for the worship of Goddess Durga in her Skandamata form. On this auspicious Panchami day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwini, devotees honor Skandamata, who blesses with prosperity and happiness, particularly in matters of childbearing. In Vijayawada, devotees also celebrate Goddess Kanaka Durga in the form of Sri Maha Chandi Devi. Today, the rituals of Skandamata and Chandi Puja will fill the air with devotion and spirituality.
During Sharadiya Navratri, each day is dedicated to a unique form of Goddess Durga. On the fifth day, devotees worship Skandamata, named for being the mother of Skanda, also known as Kartikeya. Ancient scriptures such as Kashi Khandam and Devi Puranam describe her as the divine mother who rides a lion, bringing strength and blessings to her followers. Skandamata is depicted with four arms, holding a lotus flower in two hands, while one hand cradles her son Kartikeya, and the other holds an arrow.
Auspicious Time for Skandamata Puja:
According to the Vedic Panchangam, the best time to perform Skandamata Puja is between 11:40 AM and 12:30 PM.
Skandamata Puja Rituals:
Begin by taking a bath and wearing clean, preferably white, clothes, as this is the color favored by Skandamata. Set up her image or idol in your home’s pooja room or designated worship area. Purify the space with Ganga water and place an urn with water and coins beside the idol. Proceed with the rituals by applying turmeric and saffron to the goddess and offering a banana as Naivedyam (sacred food). Perform aarti with incense and a lamp, and chant the sacred mantra of Skandamata. It is believed that worshiping in white attire and offering bananas can bring blessings of good health and prosperity.
Skandamata Puja Mantras:
Chanting these mantras with devotion is said to invoke the divine blessings of Skandamata:
- Simhasangata Nityam Padmashri Thakardwaya. Shubhamastu Devi Skandamata Yashwini
- Om Skanda Matayai Namah
- Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Skandamata Rupena Sanstita. Namastesyai Namastesyai Namastesyai Namo Namah
Significance of Skandamata Worship:
Worshiping Skandamata on the fifth day of Navratri is believed to fulfill the desires of those facing obstacles in starting a family. It is also said to bring wisdom, family peace, and overall well-being. For couples hoping to have children, Skandamata Puja holds special importance, as she is believed to bless her devotees with fertility and joy in parenthood.
May Skandamata shower her blessings on all and bring joy and prosperity during this auspicious Navratri season.
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