Skandamata: The Divine Mother of Kartikeya
Skandamata is the fifth manifestation of Navadurga, worshipped on the fifth day of Navratri. She is the mother of Skanda, also known as Lord Kartikeya, the god of war. Skandamata is revered as the nurturing goddess who blesses her devotees with courage, strength, and the protection of her divine son, Skanda. As a mother, she represents selfless love, wisdom, and the fierce energy required to protect her children and devotees.
Read More About Hindu Philosophy
Her presence in Hindu cosmology symbolizes the motherly instincts that govern the universe, protecting righteousness and nurturing the path of spiritual growth. Devotees believe that worshipping Skandamata removes obstacles, brings inner peace, and provides the strength to face life’s battles with courage and determination.
The Origin of Skandamata
The name Skandamata literally translates to “Mother of Skanda,” emphasizing her maternal aspect. According to Hindu mythology, when the demons Tarakasura and his brothers Simhamukha and Surapadma unleashed havoc on the heavens and earth, the gods sought a powerful leader to defeat them. It was foretold that only a son born to Lord Shiva could defeat the demon Tarakasura.
Through the divine union of Shiva and Parvati, Skanda (also called Kartikeya or Murugan) was born. Skandamata, as his mother, played a key role in nurturing and empowering Skanda to lead the gods into battle and emerge victorious against the demons.
Thus, Skandamata symbolizes the nurturing and protective aspects of motherhood, as well as the fierce energy that is sometimes needed to fight injustice and protect the innocent.
Iconography of Skandamata
Skandamata is typically depicted sitting on a lotus flower, earning her the name Padmasana. She holds her son, Skanda, in her lap while holding lotus flowers in her two upper hands. Her lower right hand is raised in the Abhaya Mudra, symbolizing protection and blessing, while her left hand holds Skanda in her lap.
The lotus in Hinduism symbolizes spiritual enlightenment, purity, and beauty despite the challenges of the material world. Skandamata’s association with the lotus highlights her role as a guide to spiritual awakening, helping her devotees rise above worldly obstacles and reach higher states of consciousness.
Her vehicle is the lion, symbolizing strength, courage, and fearlessness. It is a reminder of her ability to protect her devotees from evil forces while encouraging them to embody the same qualities of valor.
Spiritual Significance of Skandamata
Skandamata governs the Vishuddha Chakra (throat chakra), which is associated with communication, expression, and truth. This chakra is important for spiritual growth, as it connects one’s mind and body with divine consciousness. By opening and balancing the Vishuddha Chakra, devotees can express their innermost truths and align with their higher selves.
Worshipping Skandamata helps devotees develop inner strength and find their voice in times of struggle. Her energy is believed to purify thoughts and speech, allowing individuals to articulate their true desires and overcome any mental or emotional barriers that hinder personal growth.
Moreover, her maternal nature brings forth blessings of peace, nurturing love, and wisdom. Devotees who turn to Skandamata for guidance often find themselves able to make clear decisions, especially in difficult situations where courage and conviction are needed.
Skandamata in Navratri
During Navratri, each day is dedicated to one of the nine forms of Durga, with the fifth day set aside to honor Skandamata. This day is particularly important for those seeking her blessings for courage, strength, and protection. Devotees offer prayers and perform special rituals to seek her favor, believing that she will help them overcome obstacles in life and protect them from harm.
Skandamata is also worshipped by mothers who seek her blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their children. Her connection to the nurturing aspect of motherhood makes her a particularly beloved deity for parents.
During Navratri, devotees often recite prayers, mantras, and hymns dedicated to Skandamata to invoke her grace. One of the most powerful mantras for Skandamata is:
“Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah”
This mantra seeks Skandamata’s blessings for protection, spiritual guidance, and the ability to overcome obstacles in life.
Another hymn praising Skandamata is:
“Simhasana gata nityam padmashritakaradvaya |
Shubhadastu sada devi Skandamata yashasvini”
This hymn describes Skandamata as the eternally seated goddess, with lotus flowers in her hands, always ready to bring blessings and prosperity to her devotees.
Rituals and Offerings to Skandamata
Worshipping Skandamata during Navratri involves specific rituals and offerings that invoke her divine energy. Devotees offer:
- Yellow-colored flowers: Skandamata is particularly fond of yellow flowers, which symbolize purity and devotion.
- Bananas: As a traditional offering, bananas are considered sacred to Skandamata and symbolize nourishment and growth.
- Sweets and fruits: Devotees offer sweets made from milk, coconuts, and other fruits to please the goddess.
- Lighting diyas (lamps): Lighting oil lamps during her worship is believed to dispel darkness and ignorance, bringing light and wisdom into the devotee’s life.
By observing fasts and offering prayers, devotees seek Skandamata’s protection for themselves and their families, believing that her blessings will lead to peace, prosperity, and the ability to face life’s challenges with strength and determination.
Philosophical Teachings of Skandamata
Skandamata’s teachings revolve around the concepts of love, sacrifice, and strength. As a mother, she exemplifies unconditional love and the willingness to fight for the well-being of her children and devotees. Her fierce protection of her son Skanda, who later becomes the commander of the gods’ armies, represents the balance between nurturing and fighting for what is right.
Her lotus seat, Padmasana, symbolizes her role in guiding individuals toward spiritual purity and enlightenment. Despite being a fierce mother and protector, her gentle nature encourages devotees to cultivate love, compassion, and a sense of peace in their lives.
The lion she rides represents courage and the ability to confront one’s fears and adversities. Skandamata teaches that courage is not only about physical strength but also emotional resilience and the mental clarity to face challenges with a calm and composed mind.
Her role as the mother of Skanda further signifies the importance of parental love and the responsibilities that come with raising a child who is destined for greatness. She imparts the lesson that motherhood requires both nurturing care and the strength to guide children on their destined paths, no matter how challenging.
Symbolism of Skandamata in Hindu Philosophy
In Hindu philosophy, motherhood is regarded as one of the highest forms of devotion, and Skandamata’s role as the divine mother reinforces this concept. She represents the principle of Shakti, or divine feminine energy, which nurtures and sustains life while also possessing the power to destroy evil.
Skandamata’s role as the mother of Skanda also aligns her with the principle of Dharma (righteousness). As the protector of the righteous, Skandamata not only nurtures her son but also empowers him to carry out his dharmic duties. Her blessings enable devotees to walk the path of righteousness and fulfill their duties with courage and conviction.
Skandamata is also a reminder that the universe operates on the principles of love and sacrifice. Through her own example, she teaches that sacrifices made out of love and devotion, especially in the service of others, lead to spiritual growth and fulfillment.
Skandamata in Modern Spirituality
In the modern world, Skandamata’s teachings on strength, love, and protection are particularly relevant. She encourages devotees to find a balance between compassion and courage, nurturing their loved ones while also standing up for what is right.
Her energy is especially invoked by those seeking to overcome personal struggles or challenges. Whether it’s fighting battles in one’s personal life, dealing with adversity, or taking care of loved ones, Skandamata provides the guidance and strength needed to persevere.
Her connection to the Vishuddha Chakra also highlights the importance of truthful expression in modern spirituality. In today’s world, where communication and authenticity are crucial, Skandamata’s teachings remind devotees to speak their truth with courage and confidence, while also fostering compassion in their words.
Mantras and Prayers for Skandamata
To invoke the blessings of Skandamata, devotees chant mantras and hymns that honor her maternal and protective nature. The following mantra is often recited during Navratri:
“Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah”
This mantra calls upon Skandamata’s divine grace for protection and guidance.
Another popular prayer dedicated to Skandamata is:
“Simhasana gata nityam padmashritakaradvaya |
Shubhadastu sada devi Skandamata yashasvini”
This hymn praises Skandamata for her eternal presence on
