Key Highlights
- Day 5: On October 15, devotees worship Maa Skandamata, the fifth form of Goddess Durga.
- Her name: Mother (mata) of Skanda, also known as Lord Kartikeya.
- Her form: Holding infant Skanda in her lap, seated on a lotus and riding a lion.
- What she represents: Motherly love, protection and the blend of tenderness with strength.
- Bhog: Bananas are commonly offered.
On the fifth day of Sharadiya Navratri, devotees worship Maa Skandamata, the fifth of Goddess Durga’s nine forms. After Maa Kushmanda, the creator of the universe, this day celebrates the Goddess as a mother, nurturing and protective.
Who Is Maa Skandamata?
Her name means “mother of Skanda.” Skanda, also known as Kartikeya or Murugan, is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the commander of the gods’ army. According to tradition, he was born to defeat the demon Tarakasura, and Maa Skandamata is worshipped as the mother who raised this divine warrior.
She is depicted with four arms, holding infant Skanda in her lap, two lotus flowers in her hands, and one hand raised in blessing. She is often shown seated on a lotus, which is why she is also called Padmasana Devi, and she rides a lion.
What She Symbolises
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Infant Skanda in her lap | Unconditional motherly love |
| Lotus flowers | Purity and peace |
| Hand raised in blessing | Protection and fearlessness for devotees |
| Lion | Strength and courage |
Why It Matters: Gentle and Strong at the Same Time
Maa Skandamata carries one of Navratri’s most relatable messages. She is a loving mother cradling her child, and at the same time she rides a lion, ready to protect. Her form reminds devotees that tenderness and strength are not opposites; a mother’s love can be both soft and fierce.
