Maa Skandamata Puja on Chaitra Navratri Day 5 – Complete Guide, Mantras & Meaning
Why Maa Skandamata Holds a Special Place in Navratri
On April 3rd, the fifth day of Chaitra Navratri 2025 shines a spotlight on Maa Skandamata, the embodiment of divine motherhood. As the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya), she stands for nurturing wisdom, protection, and the gentle power that guides devotees through life's challenges. Artists often depict her seated on a lotus, cradling the infant deity in one hand while offering a lotus blossom in another, a visual cue of purity and spiritual growth.
Her four‑armed form also carries a lion, reminding worshippers that maternal love can be fierce and courageous. Because she rules the Vishuddha (throat) Chakra, her blessings are linked to clear communication, mental clarity, and the confidence to express one's true self. For many women, especially those hoping for children, Skandamata’s grace is a source of hope and comfort.
The legend behind her worship adds depth to the celebration. Ancient scriptures tell of the demon Tarkasur, who demanded invincibility from Brahma. When rebuffed, he secured a boon that only the offspring of Shiva and Parvati could defeat him. This set the stage for the birth of Kartikeya, making Parvati the revered Skandamata and linking her to the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
Step‑by‑Step Skandamata Puja for Navratri Day 5
Preparing for the puja begins at dawn. A clean body and a calm mind are considered essential, so an early, ritual bath with Ganga water is recommended. Dress in colors associated with the goddess—green, symbolizing growth, or yellow, representing auspiciousness.
- Altar setup: Place a small idol or picture of Skandamata on a clean cloth. Behind it, position a kalash filled with fresh water, topped with mango leaves, a coconut, and a pinch of rice.
- Offerings: Gather yellow marigolds, green leaves, incense sticks, camphor, and a ghee lamp. Fruit (bananas and apples), sweets (laddus or jalebi), and a fresh coconut should also be ready.
- Lighting the space: Light the ghee lamp and incense, letting the fragrance fill the room. This creates a sacred ambience that draws the goddess’s presence.
- Invocation: Chant the primary mantra, “Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah,” three times, visualising the goddess’s loving smile.
- Offering ritual: Present the flowers, fruit, and sweets while reciting the prayer: “Simhasanagata Nityam Padmanchita Karadvaya… Shubhadastu Sada Devi Skandamata Yashasvini.”
- Aarti: Wave the lit camphor in a clockwise motion, singing a devotional song praising her motherly virtues.
- Final purification: Sprinkle a few drops of the kalash water on your forehead and chest, symbolising the cleansing of negative energies.
Observing a fast—either a partial fruit fast or a full water fast—enhances the spiritual impact of the ceremony. Devotees who keep their hearts pure and minds focused often report a profound sense of peace after the puja.
Besides the primary mantra, many recite secondary verses that invoke Skandamata’s protective shield. Regular chanting is believed to strengthen the Vishuddha Chakra, leading to clearer speech, better decision‑making, and heightened intuition.
The color green takes on a special role on this day. Women are encouraged to wear green attire or drape a green scarf over the goddess’s idol. Green decorations, such as fresh foliage or emerald‑colored silk, are offered as a sign of respect and gratitude.
What do devotees actually gain from this devotion? The benefits listed in traditional texts include relief from mental stress, an uplift in wisdom, blessings for child‑bearing couples, and a protective barrier against harmful influences. Those who maintain the puja routine often describe increased emotional stability and a brighter outlook on life.
In contemporary times, many households blend ancient rituals with modern conveniences—using digital timers for aarti, streaming chants online, or sharing live updates with family abroad. Yet, the core intent remains unchanged: to honor a divine mother who embodies love, empathy, and the promise of new beginnings.