Goddess Skandamata is the fifth form of NavaDurga and worshipped on the 5th day of Navratri. When Goddess Parvati became the mother of Kartikeya (Lord Skanda), she came to be known as Skandamata.
Goddess Skandamata has four hands & three eyes. She mounts a ferocious lion. The Goddess holds baby Skanda in one of her hands and keeps the other hand in Abhayamudra. She carries lotus flowers in her upper two hands.
Story
When Sati immolated herself at the Maha Yagna organized by her father, Lord Shiva became angry and devastated. Then he decided to give up all worldly affairs and went off into deep penance. Knowing this, a demon named Tarakasura asked a boon from Lord Shiva that only Lord Shiva or his child could kill him. Pleased by his hard penance, Lord Shiva gave him that boon. Soon he started creating panic and trouble by attacking the other Gods. Because of his boon, none of the Gods were able to defeat him.
At that time, Goddess Parvati was already born in the house of the King of Himalayas. As the 1st form of Goddess Durga – Shailputri. At the request of all the other Gods, Sage Narada met Maa Parvati. He explained to her everything about her previous life as Devi Sati. Devarshi also told her about the purpose of her birth and the greatness of Lord Shiva. However, Maa Parvati had to perform meditation and penance for thousands of years to please Lord Shiva. This form of Mother Goddess is called Brahmacharini Devi. Finally, Lord Shiva took notice of her dedication and agreed to marry her.
When Lord Shiva & Maa Parvati’s energy combined, a fiery seed was produced. That seed was so hot that even Lord Agni was unable to carry it. He handed it over to Ganga. She safely carried the seed and deposited it in the forest – Saravana. There the seed was taken care of by six Krittikas. After some time, the fiery seed turned into a baby boy. Since the Krittikas looked after him, this baby boy was known as Lord Kartikeya.
Soon, Lord Kartikeya was made the commander-in-chief of the Army of Gods. Gods gave him special weapons to defeat Tarakasura. Lord Kartikeya fought a fierce battle with Tarakasura. In the end, he slaughtered the demon and brought peace to the world.
As Kartikeya was born out of a seed, he was also called Skanda. Being the mother of Lord Skanda, Maa Parvati came to be known as Skandmata.
Skandamata Puja
For Kundalini Jagaran worshipers, the 5th day of Navratri is performed by the sadhana of the pure chakra. To penetrate this cycle, the seeker must worship Skanda Mata with proper Vidhi-Vidhan. Sitting on the holy seat of Kush or blanket for worship, you should start the puja Vidhi. Then you should pray to Goddess with this mantra- Sinhasanganata Nitya Padma Ashtakarwar Shubhadastu Sada Devi Scandamata Yashaswini. Now worship Skandmata by Panchapur vidhi. The fast on this day is said to be fruitful. Maa Skandamata loves red & yellow color flowers, especially roses. Those who offer yellow roses to the Goddess on the 5th day of Navratri get the blessings of the divine mother.
Significance
It is believed that she awards devotees with salvation, power, prosperity, and treasures. She can grant oceans of wisdom even to a most illiterate person if he/she worships her with complete devotion. Skandamata who possesses the brilliance of the sun fulfills all the desires of her devotees. He who is selflessly devoted to her attains all the achievements and treasures of life. The worship of the mother goddess purifies the heart of a devotee. Her worship is ultimately conducive to salvation. She is regularly known as “The Goddess of Fire”.
Facts about Skandamata
- Origin: In her form as the mother of the God of War Lord Skanda(Kartikeya), she is known as Goddess Skandamata
- Meaning: Mother of Lord Skanda
- Worship Date: Navratri Day 5
- Planet: Mercury
- Favorite Flower: Yellow Rose
- Favorite Color: Yellow
- Mantra: Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah (ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः॥)
- Ride: Lion
- Appearance: The three-eyed Goddess Skandamata has four hands. She mounts a ferocious lion. The Goddess carries lotus flowers in Her upper two hands. She holds baby Skanda in one of her right hands and keeps the other hand in Abhayamudra.
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