Maa Skandamata: Navratri Day 5 Puja Vidhi, Story &…
Maa Skandamata: The Mother of the War God (Navratri Day 5)
On the fifth day of Navratri, devotees worship the motherly aspect of Goddess Durga, known as Maa Skandamata. She is the fifth manifestation of the Navadurga (Nine Forms of Durga).
As the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya), the Commander-in-Chief of the Gods, she symbolizes maternal love, endurance, and salvation. Worshipping her purifies the heart and brings divine wisdom to the devotee.
📅 When to Worship Maa Skandamata in 2026?
For a complete schedule of festivals, check our Hindu Festival Calendar 2026.
Date: March 23, 2026 (Monday)
Date: October 15, 2026 (Thursday)
The Story of the Divine Mother
The legend of Maa Skandamata is closely linked to the birth of Lord Kartikeya (Skanda). When the demon Tarakasura created havoc in the universe, a prophecy stated that only the son of Lord Shiva could destroy him.
Goddess Parvati (as Skandamata) took the form of fire and purity to bear the divine energy of Shiva, leading to the birth of Skanda. She trained him to become the powerful General of the Gods’ army. Thus, she is worshipped not just for her own power, but as the source of strength behind the God of War.
- Mount: She rides a ferocious Lion, symbolizing that she controls fear.
- Arms: She has four arms. Two hold lotuses, one holds infant Kartikeya, and the fourth is in Abhaya Mudra (blessing pose).
- Seat: She is often depicted seated on a lotus, earning her the name Padmasana.
Navratri Day 5 Puja Vidhi
Worshipping Maa Skandamata governs the Vishuddhi Chakra (Throat Chakra). Devotees who worship her with a pure heart are said to shine with divine light.
Place the idol of Skandamata on a clean altar. Invoke Lord Skanda (Kartikeya) alongside her.
She loves Bananas. Offering bananas to the Goddess is believed to keep the body healthy and disease-free.
Offer yellow or red flowers, especially Red Roses or Lotuses, which are dear to her.
Adorn the Goddess with White or Yellow clothes, representing purity and brightness.
🕉️ Maa Skandamata Mantra
Simhasana Gata Nityam Padmashrita Kara Dvaya,
Shubhadastu Sada Devi Skandamata Yashasvini.
“May the renowned Goddess Skandamata, who is eternally seated on a throne and whose hands are adorned with lotuses, be propitious to me.”
🎨 Auspicious Color for Day 5: Yellow or White
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Conclusion
Maa Skandamata is the goddess of endurance and motherly love. Worshipping her brings the double benefit of worshipping Lord Kartikeya as well. She blesses her devotees with knowledge, salvation, and prosperity. Trust SmartPuja to guide you through these holy days with authentic rituals.
