Navratri 2024 Day 5: Observing the Worship of Maa Skandamata

Navratri, one of the largest festivals celebrated across India, began on October 3 and will continue until October 13. The festival, whose name literally translates to “nine nights,” is dedicated to worshipping the nine forms of the Hindu goddess Durga, with each day of the festival focused on a different aspect of the deity. The nine forms include Maa Shailputri, Maa Brahmacharini, Maa Chandraghanta, Maa Kushmanda, Maa Skandamata, Maa Katyayani, Maa Kalaratri, Maa Mahagauri, and Maa Siddhidatri.

On October 7, devotees celebrate the fifth day of Navratri, dedicated to Maa Skandamata. The goddess derives the name “Skanda” from the war god Kartikeya, also known as Lord Murugan, whom she carries in her lap while riding a lion. Maa Skandamata is revered for bestowing treasures, salvation, prosperity, and power upon her followers.

Traditionally, it is believed that devotees can receive blessings from Maa Skandamata by remaining wholly focused on prayer to her, devoid of worldly distractions and pleasures. Devotees start their day early, performing a holy bath before donning new clothes and beginning their pujas (prayers) to Maa Skandamata, which include offerings such as flowers, kumkum, incense sticks, ganjagal, yellow flowers, and ghee. A banana-based bhog, or offering, is prepared on this particular day.

According to Drik Panchang, an astrological guide, the Brahma muhurat, an auspicious period for prayer, will occur from 4:33 AM to 5:21 AM on October 8.

The color associated with this day is white, symbolizing purity and innocence. Wearing white is believed to make devotees more receptive to the blessings of the Goddess.