Goddess Skandamata

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Know about Skandamata- Day 5 Navratri Goddess

Goddess Skandamata is the fifth aspect of Navadurga, the nine forms of Goddess Durga worshipped on 07 Oct 2024 Monday during Navratri on Panchami. She is the mother of Lord Skanda, also known as Lord Kartikeya, the commander-in-chief of the gods. Her name means "the mother of Skanda," she is also known as Padmasana Devi, as she sits on a lotus. She is the goddess of love, motherhood, and purity.

Goddess Skandamata is worshipped on the fifth day of Navratri.

The Origin of Goddess Skandamata

Goddess Skandamata originated from Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. After Sati, the first wife of Shiva immolated herself in her father's sacrificial fire, Shiva became detached from the world and went into meditation. Meanwhile, a demon named Tarakasura performed a severe penance and obtained a boon from Lord Brahma that he could only be killed by Shiva's son. He thought that Shiva would never marry again and thus became invincible. He started to oppress the gods and humans with his tyranny.

The gods sought the help of Lord Vishnu, who told them that Parvati, the daughter of King Himavat, was the reincarnation of Sati and destined to marry Shiva. He also advised them to seek the help of Kamadeva, the god of love, to awaken Shiva's desire for Parvati. Parvati also performed a rigorous austerity to please Shiva and win his heart.

Finally, Shiva and Parvati married, and their union resulted in a potent seed that six Krittikas, or star-goddesses, nurtured. The seed grew into a handsome and brave child named Skanda by Shiva and Parvati. He became the leader of the gods' army and killed Tarakasura in a fierce battle. Thus, Parvati became Skandamata, the mother of Skanda.

The Iconography of Goddess Skandamata

Goddess Skandamata is depicted as a four-armed and three-eyed goddess who rides on a lion. She holds her son Skanda in her lap in one hand while the other hand is in the gesture of blessing (varada mudra). Her two upper hands hold lotuses, symbolizing her purity and grace. She is fair-complexioned and wears a bright red saree. She sits on a lotus throne, which signifies her connection with Vishuddha chakra, the fifth energy center in the human body.

The Worship of Goddess Skandamata- 5^th Day of Navratri

This year, Goddess Skandamata is worshipped on the 5 day of Navratri October 07, 2024, Monday of Navratri, which falls in September or October according to the lunar calendar. She is also worshipped on Panchami tithi (the fifth lunar day) every month. Her worship bestows the devotees with salvation, power, prosperity, and wisdom. She also grants the blessings of motherhood and love to those who seek her grace.

The Legends of Goddess Skandamata

There are many legends associated with Goddess Skandamata and her son Skanda. One of them is about how Skanda got six heads. When Parvati gave birth to Skanda, she entrusted him to the six Krittikas for his care and protection.

Planet controlled by Goddess Skandamata

Goddess Skandamata is said to control the planet Mercury (Budha) in astrology. Mercury represents intelligence, communication, logic, and learning. Those who worship Goddess Skandamata can enhance these qualities and overcome any obstacles related to these domains.

The Significance of Goddess Skandamata

Goddess Skandamata is significant for her devotees as she represents the purest form of love and compassion. She teaches them to be selfless and devoted to their children and family. She also inspires them to be courageous and righteous in their actions. She helps them attain spiritual enlightenment by activating their Vishuddha chakra, which governs speech, expression, and creativity.

Skandamata mantra

Various mantras can be chanted to invoke the blessings of Goddess Skandamata. Some of them are:

Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah (Salutations to the mother of Skanda)
Sinhasanagata Nityam Padmanchita Karadvaya | Shubhadastu Sada Devi Skandamata Yashasvini || (She who is always seated on a lion throne with lotuses in her hands, may she always bestow auspiciousness, she is Skandamata, the glorious one)
Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Skandamata Rupena Samsthita | Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah || (Salutations to the goddess who resides in all beings as the mother of Skanda)

The Prayers of Goddess Skandamata Devi

Various prayers can be offered to Goddess Skandamata. Some of them are:

Skandamata Stuti (A hymn in praise of Skandamata)
Skandamata Ashtakam (An octet in honor of Skandamata)
Skandamata Sahasranama (A thousand names of Skandamata)

The Rituals of Goddess Skandamata

Various rituals can be performed to worship Goddess Skandamata Devi. Some of them are:

Skandamata Puja (A ritual worship of Skandamata with offerings of flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, and lamps)
Skandamata Homam (A fire sacrifice dedicated to Skandamata with chanting of mantras and offering of ghee, rice, and herbs)
Skandamata Abhishekam (A ritual bathing of the idol or image of Skandamata with water, milk, honey, curd, and other liquids)

The Temples of Goddess Skandamata Devi

There are many temples dedicated to Goddess Skandamata across India and abroad. Some of them are:

Shri Parvati Mata Temple, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
Shri Durga Parameshwari Temple, Kateel, Karnataka

The Benefits of Worshipping Goddess Skandamata

Protection from enemies and evil forcesSuccess in education and careerFulfillment of desires and wishesHappiness and harmony in family lifePeace and prosperity in society. Monday, October 07, 2024, is the day to honor Goddess Skandamata. Wear yellow. She will give that person an unmatched sense of hope and happiness.

If you want to experience the divine grace of Goddess Skandamata, you can book a puja or astrological consultation with Sulekha Astro and Pooja Services. They offer a wide range of services for your spiritual needs and well-being. Whether you want to perform a puja at your home or temple or get a personalized horoscope reading or guidance from an expert astrologer, they have it all. You can also avail of their online services if you live in the USA or Canada.

Sulekha Astro and Pooja Services is your one-stop destination for all your religious and spiritual needs. Contact them today and get ready to receive the blessings of Goddess Skandamata Devi.