On the fifth day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Skandamata, the compassionate mother of Skanda (Lord Kartikeya). Her name itself means “Mother of Skanda.” She embodies both motherhood and divine strength, nurturing her children with boundless love while also protecting them with immense courage.
Maa Skandamata is depicted with four arms and a fair, radiant complexion. She carries baby Skanda on her lap, symbolizing maternal devotion, while holding lotus flowers in two hands, and showing protective gestures in the others. She is seated on a majestic lion, representing courage and fearlessness, and is also called Padmasani, as she is often shown seated on a lotus.
Her form reflects the balance of motherly compassion and divine power, reminding devotees that true strength is rooted in love and purity.
Worshipping Maa Skandamata on the fifth day of Navratri is believed to bring peace and prosperity to the household while blessing children and students with wisdom and intelligence. She helps remove obstacles in career and family life, guiding devotees toward spiritual growth and compassion. Symbolically, Maa Skandamata represents the transformation of the devotee’s heart into a place of purity, much like the lotus she holds, which blooms with grace even amidst muddy waters.
Maa Skandamata is associated with the planet Mercury (Budh), which governs intelligence, wisdom, and communication. Her gemstone is the Emerald (Panna), known to enhance clarity of thought, learning ability, and harmonious family relationships. In the Rudraksha tradition, the 6 Mukhi Rudraksha resonates strongly with her energy, helping to strengthen focus and discipline while bestowing blessings upon children and students. Together, these associations make her worship especially powerful for those seeking both academic excellence and spiritual growth.
On the fifth day of Navratri, devotees worship Maa Skandamata with offerings of yellow flowers and fruits such as bananas or pomegranates, symbolizing purity and devotion. They chant the sacred mantra “Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah” to invoke her divine grace, and meditate upon her serene form to receive blessings of inner purity, wisdom, and external prosperity.
Conclusion
The fifth day of Navratri, dedicated to Maa Skandamata, teaches us that strength and compassion must go hand in hand. By invoking her blessings, devotees not only receive protection and wisdom but also learn the importance of nurturing love in all relationships.
