Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended greetings on the fifth day of Shardiya Navratri, invoking the blessings of Goddess Skandamata for the well-being of all devotees.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote: “During Navratri, today there is a special worship of the fifth form of the Mother, Devi Skandamata. With folded hands, we pray to her that she blesses all her devotees with happiness, prosperity, and good fortune. May her motherly affection infuse new energy and enthusiasm into everyone’s life.”
The fifth day of Navratri is dedicated to Maa Skandamata, the mother of Kartikeya, who symbolises purity, compassion, and maternal strength. She is associated with the Vishuddha Chakra and is believed to remove stress and suffering. Devotees traditionally offer yellow and saffron-coloured flowers and ‘bhog’ items, considering them dear to the Goddess.
According to the Panchang, however, the Panchami Tithi begins only after 9:34 a.m. on September 26 and will extend until 12:05 p.m. on September 27. Thus, the main puja of Maa Skandamata will be observed on September 27, while September 26 morning continues to fall under Chaturthi Tithi, associated with Maa Kushmanda.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid tribute, describing the day’s significance. In a post, he wrote: “By the grace of Maa Kushmanda, the fourth form of Maa Bhagavati, the primordial divine essence, one attains intelligence, health, sharpness of speech, and boundless strength.” He prayed for prosperity and divine energy in the lives of the people.
Across the country, devotees thronged temples to offer prayers, flowers, and fruits to the Goddess. Skandamata is often depicted seated on a lion with her son Kartikeya on her lap and lotus flowers in her hands, symbolising protection and guidance toward spiritual as well as material success.
This year, Shardiya Navratri began on September 22 and will conclude on October 2, with each day dedicated to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga.
–IANS