Navratri 2024 Day 5: Worship of Goddess Skandamata

The celebration of Navratri, one of India’s most significant festivals, continues on its fifth day, marked by the worship of Goddess Skandamata. This annual festival, derived from the Sanskrit word for ‘nine nights’, commenced on October 3 and will culminate on October 11. Observed across the country, Navratri is dedicated to honoring the nine forms of Goddess Durga over the course of nine days.

On the fifth day, devotees pay homage to Maa Skandamata, a revered deity known for her association with the war god, Kartikeya, also called Lord Murugan. She is depicted riding a lion with her child Murugan in her lap. Devotees believe that Skandamata bestows treasures, prosperity, power, and salvation upon her worshippers.

As per religious beliefs, devotees who immerse themselves in pure devotion to Maa Skandamata are richly rewarded. It is essential, according to tradition, that worshippers detach themselves from worldly concerns to offer heartfelt prayers for the goddess’s blessings.

Rituals on this day involve early rising, followed by a cleansing bath, and the wearing of fresh garments. Offerings to Maa Skandamata typically include flowers, kumkum, incense sticks, and ghee. A special banana-based offering, known as ‘bhog’, is prepared for the goddess.

The auspicious time for worship, known as Brahma Muhurat, is reported by Drik Panchang to start at 4:33 AM and conclude at 5:21 AM on October 8. Devotees are encouraged to wear white garments, symbolizing purity and innocence, as it is believed to make them more amenable to receiving the goddess’s favor.

The observance of Navratri highlights not only the spiritual engagement through daily acts of devotion but also emphasizes the cultural significance of rituals that have been passed down through generations.