New Delhi: Navaratri is a festival celebrated in the honour of Goddess Durga. Navaratri is a Sanskrit word which means 'nine nights'. Though there are four Navaratris in a year, big celebrations are observed for two of them--first in the month of Chaitra (Chaitra Navaratri), and again in the month of Ashvin (Sharad/Shardiya Navaratri).
Sharad Navaratri occurs at the onset of the autumn season, whereas Chaitra Navaratri occurs in the spring. The religious traditions of both--Sharad Navaratri and are Chaitra Navaratri--are the same.
This time Sharad Navaratri begins on October 15 and will last till October 23. The nine-day celebrations are devoted to honouring Goddess Durga in her nine forms and all of them have different significance.
These nine forms are:
1. Shailaputri
2. Brahmacharini
3. Chandraghanta
4. Kushmanda
5. Skandamata
6. Katyayini
7. Kaalratri
8. Mahagauri
9. Siddhidatri
Dynamite News brings you the significance of these nine incarnations of Goddess Durga on the day they are worshipped.
Fifth Navaratri October 19 Thursday: Skandamata
The fifth day is dedicated to the Goddess Skandamata. Her name comes from Skanda, an alternate name for the war god Kartikeya, and Mata, meaning mother. The worship of Skandamata brings motherly love and peace.
Skandamata is depicted as having four arms, holding her son Skanda or Kartikeya on her lap, and riding a lion. She is also sometimes depicted holding a lotus flower or a bell in her hands.
Maa Skandamata is considered the epitome of motherhood.
