Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended his greetings to the nation on the fourth day of Sharada Navratri, dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda.
Maa Kushmanda, revered as the fourth manifestation of Goddess Durga, is depicted in Hindu iconography with eight hands and seated on a lioness. She holds a lotus, a kamandal (pot), and a bow and arrow in her right hands, while her left hands carry a rosary, a mace, the amrit kalash (pot of nectar), and the divine discus (chakra). Worshipping this form of the Goddess is believed to help devotees overcome illnesses, sorrows, and imperfections.
In a post on X, PM Modi said: “Today, I offer my heartfelt prayers to the fourth form of the Goddess, Maa Kushmanda. I pray to the resplendent Goddess, who is effulgent like the sun, to bless all her devotees with prosperity and happiness. May her divine light illuminate everyone’s life.”
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also greeted people on the occasion. She wrote: “The fourth form of Mother Durga, Mother Kushmanda, created the universe with her infinite power. Through her worship, we attain mental peace, physical strength, and inner strength, which empower us to face every challenge. On this sacred occasion, may the blessings of Mother Kushmanda fill everyone’s life with happiness, prosperity, and peace. Jai Mata Di.”
Navratri, meaning “nine nights” in Sanskrit, is celebrated across India with devotion, honoring Goddess Durga and her nine avatars, collectively known as Navdurga. Rituals, prayers, and festivities mark the worship of each form of the Goddess throughout the festival.