Navratri 2023 Day 5: Skanda Mata, Puja Vidhi, Mantra, Green Colour

Have you ever wondered about the divine embrace of a mother’s love? As the radiant festival of Navratri progresses, we find ourselves on the fifth day, an occasion that resonates with the divine presence of Maa Skandamata. This day embodies maternal love, protection, and the embodiment of a nurturing spirit. It’s a time when devotees pay homage to the motherly aspect of the Goddess Durga, who cradles Lord Kartikeya in her lap. 

Join us on this illuminating journey as we explore the significance of the fifth day of Navratri, the rituals that connect us with Maa Skandamata’s boundless love, and the profound symbolism that underscores this day’s celebration. From the colour of the day to the heartfelt prayers offered, let’s delve into the maternal embrace of Navratri’s fifth day, where love and protection reign supreme.

The Maternal Essence of Maa Skandamata

Now that we know that Maa Skandmata of Navratri epitomises maternal love and protection, are we ready to discover more about this divine presence celebrated on the fifth day?

 “On the fifth day of Navratri, our focus shifts to Maa Skandamata, who is often depicted as a radiant goddess seated on a lion with Lord Kartikeya, her infant son, in her lap. Her name ‘Skandamata’ translates to ‘Mother of Skanda’ (another name for Lord Kartikeya). She symbolises the epitome of maternal love and protection. It’s believed that her divine presence envelops her devotees in a sense of security and warmth, much like a loving mother’s embrace.”

The Significance of Day 5: Maternal Blessings

As we honour Maa Skandamata on this day, we seek her blessings for maternal instincts, the well-being of children, and protection from harm. She signifies the unwavering strength and nurturing care that a mother provides. It’s a reminder of the importance of maternal love and the role it plays in our lives.

The Colour Associated with Maa Skandmata: Royal Blue

Why does royal blue take centre stage on this day? In the colourful tapestry of Navratri, each day has its own unique hue, and on the fifth day, royal blue takes centre stage. Royal blue signifies the regal and majestic aura of Maa Skandamata, who is revered as the mother of a great warrior and leader, Lord Kartikeya. Wearing royal blue on this day is a way to connect with her maternal energy and seek her blessings.

Puja Vidhi

Preparation: Ensure that your puja space is clean and serene. Place the picture or idol of Goddess Skandamata on the altar.

Invocation: Light the lamp and incense sticks. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and invoke Goddess Skandamata with devotion and sincerity in your heart.

Offerings: Offer fresh flowers, fruits, and sweets to the Goddess while reciting her name and seeking her blessings.

Prayers: Chant the following mantra while focusing on the Goddess:

“ॐ देवी स्कंदमातायै नमः।”

(Om Devi Skandamata Namah)

Aarti: If you have camphor, light it and perform aarti in a circular motion in front of the Goddess’s idol or picture.

Meditation and Reflection: Spend a few moments in meditation, connecting with the energy and blessings of Goddess Skandamata. Reflect on the qualities of motherhood and divine love.

Prasad Distribution: Conclude the puja by distributing prasad (the offerings) to your family members.

Devotional Songs: You can also sing devotional songs or bhajans dedicated to Goddess Skandamata to enhance the spiritual atmosphere.

Remember to perform the puja with a pure heart and devotion. It’s essential to maintain a calm and focused mind during the worship. This ritual can be tailored to your personal preferences and the resources available to you.

Rituals and Traditions

Devotees celebrate this day with great devotion and enthusiasm. The day typically begins with a special puja (worship) dedicated to Maa Skandamata. Offerings of flowers, sweets, and fruits are made to the goddess. Devotees also light a lamp or diya and recite prayers and mantras to seek her protection and blessings for their children.

The Mantra of Maa Skandamata

One of the powerful mantras associated with Maa Skandamata is:

“ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः” (Om Devi Skandamata Yai Namah)

This mantra is chanted with devotion to invoke the loving and protective energy of Maa Skandamata.

Frequency

There is no strict rule regarding the number of times you should chant the mantra. Some people may choose to chant it a specific number of times, such as 108 or 1008, while others may chant it continuously during their worship and meditation.The most important aspect is the intent and devotion with which you chant the mantra.

Embracing Maternal Love and Protection

The fifth day of Navratri stands as a beautiful reminder of the abundant maternal love that envelops our lives, emanating from both our earthly mothers and the divine motherly presence of Maa Skandamata. It is a moment for contemplation on the profound significance of nurturing and safeguarding our loved ones, reinforcing our awareness of the resilience and fortitude that derives from a mother’s affection. 

Enveloped in the regal hue of royal blue for the day, this day serves as a gentle reminder to not solely seek Maa Skandamata’s blessings but also extend our love and protection to those around us. In the same way she cradles Lord Kartikeya, may we also embrace our dreams and aspirations, tending to them with love, care, and unwavering determination.

As we bid farewell to the fifth day of Navratri, may the protective aura of Maa Skandamata continue to illuminate our path, enveloping our existence in a cocoon of warmth and security. 

“Within her divine embrace, we unearth our inner strength, and within her blessings, we discover boundless love.”