Bhubaneswar: The fifth day of Navratri is marked by a deep and unique reverence for goddess Skandamata. Her name encapsulates her essence – “Skanda,” an epithet for Lord Kartikeya, and “Mata,” meaning mother. She is celebrated as the divine mother of valor, symbolising the courageous spirit of a mother protecting her child.
She is often depicted riding a fierce lion with baby Murugan in her lap. Lord Murugan is also known as Kartikeya & Lord Ganesha’s brother. She is typically depicted with four hands, holding lotus flowers in her upper two hands. In one of her right hands, she carries baby Murugan, and her other right hand is positioned in Abhaya Mudra.
Seated on a lotus flower, she is often referred to as Goddess Padmasana. Those who worship her in this form gain the blessings of worshipping Lord Kartikeya as well. Goddess Skandamata is described as having a Shubhra complexion which signifies her white or pure complexion.
On the fifth day, devotees worship Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya. Yellow signifies the energy and enthusiasm of a new dawn, with the promise of a fresh beginning.
Significance
Worshipping Skandamata on the fifth day of Navratri holds great significance. Skandamata is believed to bestow salvation, power, and prosperity upon her devotees. She can even grant wisdom to the illiterate. Those selflessly devoted to her attain the achievements and riches of life.
Her worship brings a twofold blessing, as the devotee not only worships Skandamata but also automatically worships Lord Skanda, her son in her lap. Thus, devotees enjoy the combined grace of both deities.
Skandamata is linked to the heart chakra which symbolizes love, compassion and also promotes emotional balance and harmony.
Puja Vidhi
To perform the puja, all you need is a picture or idol of the goddess, which should be cleansed with Gangajal. Offerings like flowers, Deepam, sacred water, and food (Prasad) should be made. You can present a banana or another fruit, along with six cardamoms to the goddess. It’s important to bathe, wear clean attire, and offer bhog to the goddess as part of the ritual.
Bhog
On the fifth day of Navratri, devotees offer bananas as prasad to Devi Skandamata to seek her blessings for prosperity and power. They also prepare various banana treats to honour Goddess Skanda Mata.
