Shardiya Navratri 2024 4th Day: Worship of Maa Kushmanda

The fourth day of Shardiya Navratri, which falls on October 6, 2024, is dedicated to the worship of Maa Kushmanda, the fourth form of Maa Durga. Maa Kushmanda is also known as Adishakti or Adiswaroopa, symbolizing the power of creation. This day holds immense significance in the nine-day festival of Navratri, which is observed according to the Hindu calendar in the month of Ashwin.

Significance of Maa Kushmanda

Maa Kushmanda is revered as the creator of the universe. According to Hindu beliefs, when the universe was engulfed in darkness, Maa Kushmanda's gentle smile illuminated the cosmos and gave birth to the entire universe. Due to this, she is often referred to as the goddess of the cosmic egg. Her name, Kushmanda, is derived from Kummeaning little, Ushma meaning warmth, and Anda meaning egg, symbolizing her role in creating the universe from nothing.

Appearance of Maa Kushmanda

Maa Kushmanda is depicted with eight arms, which is why she is also called Ashtabhuja Devi. In her seven hands, she holds a lotus flower, a pot of nectar (amrit kalash), a bow, arrows, a discus (chakra), a mace (gada), and a water pot (kamandal). In her eighth hand, she carries a japa mala (rosary), which is believed to bestow all kinds of spiritual powers and wealth. Maa Kushmanda's vehicle is a lion, and she radiates with a soft, gentle smile.

Offerings to Maa Kushmanda

On the fourth day of Navratri, it is considered auspicious to offer Malpua made from flour and ghee to Maa Kushmanda. This offering is believed to bless the devotee with strength and wisdom. Maa Kushmanda is also fond of the pumpkin, which is why it is believed that the word Kushmanda is derived from Kumhda, the Sanskrit word for pumpkin.

Benefits of Worshiping Maa Kushmanda

Worshiping Maa Kushmanda on this day is believed to provide relief from all kinds of diseases and ailments, bestowing the devotee with good health and long life. It is also said that devotees who worship Maa Kushmanda experience prosperity, happiness, and success in life.

Chaturthi Tithi Timings

According to the Hindu Panchang, Chaturthi Tithi (fourth day) will begin on October 6, 2024, at 7:49 AM and will end on October 7, 2024, at 9:47 AM.