Introduction
Skandamata, the fifth form of Goddess Durga, holds a special place in Hindu mythology and is revered during the auspicious period of Navratri. As we delve into Skandamata’s divine essence, we’ll explore her significance, symbolism, and the profound impact she has on devotees’ lives.
Who is Skandamata?
Skandamata, literally meaning “Mother of Skanda,” is the fifth incarnation of Goddess Durga. She is known as the mother of Lord Kartikeya (also called Skanda or Murugan), the god of war and commander-in-chief of the army of the gods. This form of the goddess represents motherly love, protection, and fierce determination.
Skandamata’s Significance in Navratri
During the nine-day festival of Navratri, Skandamata is worshipped on the fifth day. This day is considered particularly auspicious for devotees seeking the blessings of the divine mother. The worship of Skandamata is believed to bring:
- Protection from negative energies
- Wisdom and knowledge
- Strength to overcome obstacles
- Blessings for a harmonious family life
Iconography and Depiction
Skandamata is typically depicted with four arms, holding:
- A lotus flower in her upper right-hand
- Lord Kartikeya as an infant in her upper left arm
- A bell in her lower right-hand
- A kamandalu (water pot) in her lower left hand
She is often shown seated on a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and transcendence. Her skin is usually portrayed as golden or fair, representing her divine radiance.
The Story of Skandamata
The story of Skandamata is closely tied to the birth of Lord Kartikeya. According to Hindu mythology, the demon Tarakasura had received a boon that he could only be killed by the son of Lord Shiva. To prevent this, Tarakasura disrupted Lord Shiva’s meditation and prevented his marriage to Goddess Parvati.
Eventually, Lord Shiva and Parvati were united, and from their union, Lord Kartikeya was born. Goddess Parvati, in her role as Kartikeya’s mother, became known as Skandamata. She nurtured and prepared Kartikeya for his divine mission to defeat Tarakasura and restore cosmic balance.
Worship and Rituals
Devotees worship Skandamata with great devotion during Navratri, especially on the fifth day. Some common practices include:
1. Offering red flowers, particularly hibiscus
2. Lighting a ghee lamp
3. Chanting mantras dedicated to Skandamata
4. Performing aarti (ritual of light)
5. Offering prasad (sanctified food) of bananas
Many devotees also observe fasting on this day, consuming only fruits and milk products as a form of spiritual discipline.
Astrological Connections
Skandamata is associated with the planet Mercury (Budha) in Vedic astrology. This connection is believed to bring the following benefits to devotees:
- Enhanced communication skills
- Improved intellect and analytical abilities
- Better decision-making capabilities
- Success in business and trade
Those born under the influence of Mercury or facing challenges related to this planet often seek Skandamata’s blessings for relief and guidance.
Spiritual Significance
Skandamata is closely associated with the Vishuddha (throat) chakra, which governs communication, self-expression, and purification. Meditating on Skandamata is believed to:
- Cleanse and activate the Vishuddha chakra
- Enhance one’s ability to express thoughts and emotions clearly
- Purify speech and thought patterns
- Promote spiritual growth and self-realization
Many spiritual practitioners focus on this form of the goddess to unlock their inner potential and achieve higher states of consciousness.
Mantras
Devotees chant various mantras and prayers to invoke the blessings of Skandamata. Some popular ones include:
मां स्कंदमाता का पूजा मंत्र-
सिंहासना गता नित्यं पद्माश्रि तकरद्वया।
शुभदास्तु सदा देवी स्कन्दमाता यशस्विनी।।
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु मां स्कंदमाता रूपेण संस्थिता।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:।।
Reciting these mantras and prayers with devotion is believed to invoke Skandamata’s blessings and protection.
Skandamata Aarti
जय तेरी हो स्कंद माता।
पांचवां नाम तुम्हारा आता॥
सबके मन की जानन हारी।
जग जननी सबकी महतारी॥
तेरी जोत जलाता रहू मैं।
हरदम तुझे ध्याता रहू मै॥
कई नामों से तुझे पुकारा।
मुझे एक है तेरा सहारा॥
कही पहाडो पर है डेरा।
कई शहरों में तेरा बसेरा॥
हर मंदिर में तेरे नजारे।
गुण गाए तेरे भक्त प्यारे॥
भक्ति अपनी मुझे दिला दो।
शक्ति मेरी बिगड़ी बना दो॥
इंद्र आदि देवता मिल सारे।
करे पुकार तुम्हारे द्वारे॥
दुष्ट दैत्य जब चढ़ कर आए।
तू ही खंडा हाथ उठाए॥
दासों को सदा बचाने आयी।
भक्त की आस पुजाने आयी॥
Conclusion
Skandamata, the divine mother of Skanda, embodies the qualities of motherly love, protection, and spiritual wisdom. Her worship during Navratri offers devotees an opportunity to connect with the divine feminine energy and seek blessings for various aspects of life. By understanding and embracing the symbolism and significance of Skandamata, we can tap into her transformative power and nurture our spiritual growth.
As we celebrate Navratri and honor Skandamata, let us reflect on the divine qualities she represents and strive to embody them in our daily lives. May the blessings of Skandamata guide us towards a path of wisdom, strength, and spiritual enlightenment.
