Chaitra Navraatri - Day 5
Chaitra Navratri, one of the most prominent Hindu festivals, commenced on April 9 and will continue till April 17. Today, April 13, marks the 5th day of Chaitra Navratri, and on this day, we honor Goddess Skandamata—a form of the revered Goddess Durga12.
Who is Maa Skandamata? Maa Skandamata is the fifth form of the Hindu Goddess Durga and is worshipped on the fifth day of the Hindu festival of Chaitra Navratri. The word “Skanda” refers to Kartikeya, who is the son of Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati, and the brother of Lord Ganesha. “Mata” means mother. Maa Skandamata is therefore regarded as the mother of Lord Kartikeya or Skanda, also known as Murugan or Subramanya in different parts of India. She is depicted with four arms, holding her son Skanda or Kartikeya on her lap while riding a lion. In her upper arms, she holds the lotus flower, and in one of her lower right hands, she cradles child Murugan. Her other hand is raised in the Abhaya Mudra. Goddess Skandamata is also called Goddess Padmasana due to her association with the lotus flower. She represents maternal love, fearlessness, and blesses her devotees with protection and prosperity. According to beliefs, the planet Buddha is ruled by Goddess Skandamata. By worshipping her, devotees seek blessings for protection, prosperity, and success in their endeavors. She is also believed to bestow knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment upon her devotees3.
Significance of Maa Skandamata:
- Strength and Protection: Maa Skandamata is revered as the mother of Lord Kartikeya, the commander of the army of gods. Her depiction holding her son on a lion symbolizes strength, protection, and motherly love.
- Heart Chakra Connection: She is associated with the heart chakra, representing love, compassion, and understanding.
- Blessings and Prosperity: Worshippers seek her blessings for protection, prosperity, and success in life.
- Maternal Love: She embodies maternal love and fearlessness.
Puja Rituals and Auspicious Timings (Shubh Muhurat) for Day 5:
- Panchami Tithi: Till 12:04 pm
- Chaitra Shukla Panchami Date Starts: April 12, 1:11 pm
- Chaitra Shukla Panchami Date Ends: April 13, 12:04 pm
- Brahma Muhurat: 4:28 am to 5:13 am
- Vijaya Muhurat: 2:30 pm to 3:21 pm3
On this auspicious day, devotees offer bananas to Maa Skandamata, believed to keep the worshipper in good health1. May you receive her blessings for strength, prosperity, and well-being. 🙏🌸
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