Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh

Maa Skandamata, the fifth form of Goddess Durga, symbolises love, motherhood, wisdom and prosperity. Devotees worship the goddess on the fifth day of Sharadiya Navratri, seeking knowledge, happiness and blessings for their children.

The fifth day of Sharadiya Navratri is dedicated to Maa Skandamata and falls on Thursday, October 15, 2026. She is also known as Vidyavahini, Maheshwari and Gauri.

According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping the goddess helps enhance wisdom, attain knowledge and seek blessings for a happy family life. Devotees also believe that observing a fast, performing puja and listening to or reciting her katha can bring prosperity and blessings related to childbirth.

Who Is Maa Skandamata?

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, gave birth to Lord Kartikeya, who is also known as Skanda. As the mother of Skanda, Goddess Durga's fifth form is worshipped as Maa Skandamata.

The goddess represents maternal love, compassion and protection. Devotees believe that worshipping her brings happiness, peace and prosperity into their lives.

Maa Skandamata's Appearance

Maa Skandamata is depicted with four arms and is seated on a lion, holding Lord Kartikeya in her lap. She holds lotus flowers in two of her hands, while her face radiates divine brilliance, resembling the Sun.

Offering a bow and arrows during her worship is also considered auspicious.

Maa Skandamata Puja Shubh Muhurat 2026

Devotees can perform the puja during the following auspicious timings on October 15:

  • Amrit Kaal: 8:58 pm to 10:45 pm

  • Brahma Muhurat: 4:51 am to 5:39 am

  • Abhijit Muhurat: 11:49 am to 12:35 pm

Note: Auspicious timings may vary depending on the location.

Maa Skandamata Puja Vidhi

Devotees should wake up early, take a bath and wear clean clothes before beginning the puja. They can offer flowers, incense, lamps and other traditional offerings to the goddess while chanting her mantras.

Yellow flowers are considered auspicious for Maa Skandamata. Devotees may also observe a fast and recite the goddess's katha as part of the worship.

What Bhog Should Be Offered to Maa Skandamata?

Bananas and sweets prepared from bananas are considered auspicious offerings for Maa Skandamata. Devotees may offer banana kheer, halwa or other banana-based sweets as bhog.

Which Colour Should You Wear on Navratri Day 5?

Yellow or white is considered auspicious for the fifth day of Navratri. Devotees can wear clothes in either colour and offer yellow flowers to the goddess while praying for happiness, prosperity and family well-being.

Maa Skandamata Mantras

1. Mool Mantra

Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah.

2. Beej Mantra

Om Aim Hreem Kleem Skandamatayai Namah.

3. Prarthana Mantra

Singhasanagata Nityam Padmashritakaradvaya,

Shubhadastu Sada Devi Skandamata Yashaswini.

4. Stuti Mantra

Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Skandamata Rupena Samsthita,

Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.

Devotees chant these mantras to seek the blessings of Maa Skandamata for wisdom, peace, prosperity and family happiness.