On the fifth day of Navaratri, devotees honor Skandamata, the mother of Lord Skanda (Kartikeya). She embodies motherly love and courage, and her blessings bring wisdom, prosperity, and strength. The name “Skandamata” means “Mother of Skanda,” referring to Kartikeya, the god of war, who was the commander of the divine army in their battle against demons. By worshiping Skandamata, devotees receive double blessings, as they also worship Lord Kartikeya, who sits on her lap as a child.

Appearance of the Goddess

Skandamata has four arms. Two of her hands hold lotuses, one hand supports her divine son Kartikeya, and the fourth hand is in the gesture of blessing her devotees. She has three eyes and is often depicted holding her six-faced son. She is seated on a lotus, earning her the name “Padmasana,” and she rides a lion. Her complexion is radiant and white, making her appear resplendent.

Symbolism of Skandamata

Skandamata’s face exudes kindness and joy as she lovingly holds her divine child. Her power lies in the strength of a mother’s love. She blesses her devotees with the same affection she has for her son.

Devotees who worship her with a pure and devoted heart are blessed with intelligence, wealth, power, prosperity, and ultimately, salvation. Her blessings also bring peace of mind, contentment, and joy. It is believe that even the most intellectually challenged individuals can become wise through her grace. She leads her devotees toward deeper consciousness, which is the path to salvation and enlightenment.

The Legend Behind Skandamata

Since it seemed unlikely that Shiva would take on the role of a householder again, this boon made Tarakasura nearly invincible. Fearlessly, he attacked the gods, causing chaos in heaven.

However, through her devotion and intense penance, Parvati (Sati’s reincarnation) won Shiva’s favor, and he emerged from his meditation. They married, and then their son Kartikeya was born. Kartikeya became the commander of the divine army and defeated Tarakasura, liberating heaven from his terror. Parvati earned the name Skandamata as the mother of the heroic Kartikeya.

Skandamata’s Spiritual Significance

Skandamata represents maternal energy. Skanda, with his six faces, symbolizes the six senses.

Skandamata is the mother of the six systems of knowledge or philosophy – Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, Yoga, Vedanta, and Mimamsa. These are the six limbs of the body of the Vedas, representing knowledge. When we worship Skandamata, we bow to the mother of all wisdom. This is the path of higher education and enlightenment.