Navratri Day 4: On the Navratri Day 4, we worship Goddess Kushmanda, the fourth incarnation of Goddess Durga. Goddess Kushmanda is believed to be the creator of the universe and is associated with the cosmic energy that sustains all life.

Meaning

Her name “Kushmanda” is derived from three Sanskrit words: “Ku” meaning little, “Ushma” meaning warmth or energy, and “Anda” meaning the cosmic egg. Thus, Goddess Kushmanda is often called the one who created the universe with her divine energy, giving it warmth and light.

Significance

Depicted as a goddess with eight arms, Goddess Kushmanda rides a tiger and holds a variety of weapons, symbolizing her ability to destroy negativity and evil forces. She is also shown with a radiant smile, symbolizing happiness and prosperity. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that she resides in the solar system’s core, and her energy radiates as the sun’s warmth, providing life to the universe. She is often associated with vitality, positivity, and strength.

Worshiping Goddess Kushmanda on the fourth day of Navratri is said to invoke prosperity, health, and vitality. Devotees believe blessings help them overcome physical and emotional challenges, bringing them joy and good fortune. It is also believed that she brings light into the darkest aspects of life, helping her followers achieve spiritual and material growth.

How to worship?

On this day, devotees typically offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the goddess, perform aarti, and chant mantras such as “Om Kushmandayai Namah” to invoke her blessings. Fasting and offering prayers with devotion on this day is considered highly auspicious, as it is said to grant strength, good health, and the ability to overcome all obstacles in life.