Skandamata

स्कंदमाता

Also known as: Ambika · Maheshwari · Gauri · Parvati

Consort

Shiva

Vahana

Lioness

Weapon

Lotus (in two upper hands), often depicted with the lower right hand in Abhaya Mudra (blessing gesture)

Abode

Mount Kailash

Children

Kartikeya (Skanda), Ganesha, Ashokasundari

Sacred Texts

Devi Mahatmyam, Kalika Purana, Markandeya Purana, Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana

Who is Skandamata?

Devi Skandamata is the fifth manifestation of Goddess Durga, worshipped on the fifth day of Navaratri. Her name translates to 'Mother of Skanda', referring to her being the mother of Kartikeya (also known as Skanda or Murugan), the commander-in-chief of the gods. This form embodies the purest essence of motherhood, compassion, and the protective instincts of a mother towards her child. She represents the nurturing aspect of the divine feminine. After Lord Shiva and Parvati were married, their son Kartikeya was born to lead the divine army against the demon Tarakasura. As his mother, Parvati took on the form of Skandamata to nurture and protect him. Her presence signifies that the mother's love is the ultimate source of strength and wisdom. She is often depicted holding her son, emphasizing her maternal devotion and symbolizing the ease with which a mother can transcend her serene nature to become fiercely protective when her child is threatened. Worshipping Skandamata is believed to bestow immense maternal blessings, including the boon of children, protection for one's offspring, and the removal of all troubles. She purifies the hearts of her devotees, granting them wisdom, prosperity, and liberation. Meditating on her form helps activate the Vishuddha Chakra (Throat Chakra), enhancing communication, creativity, and the expression of divine love and compassion.

Etymology & Names

The name Skandamata (स्कन्दमाता) is derived from two Sanskrit words: 'Skanda' (स्कन्द), which is another name for Kartikeya, the son of Shiva and Parvati, and 'Mata' (माता) meaning 'mother'. Thus, Skandamata literally means 'The Mother of Skanda'.

Iconography & Symbolism

Goddess Skandamata is depicted with four arms and has a fair complexion. In her two upper hands, she gracefully holds lotus flowers, symbolizing purity, spiritual enlightenment, and beauty. Her lower right hand is usually in the Abhaya Mudra (a gesture of blessing and fearlessness), offering protection to her devotees. Crucially, her lower left hand holds her infant son, Skanda (Kartikeya), in her lap, emphasizing her profound maternal aspect. She rides a fierce lion, which symbolizes courage, strength, and her ability to overcome any challenge to protect her child and devotees. Despite her powerful mount, her countenance is gentle, loving, and serene, reflecting the benevolent and nurturing nature of a divine mother.

Stories & Legends

📖**Mother of Kartikeya (Skanda):** The central story of Skandamata revolves around her identity as the mother of Kartikeya, the divine warrior. After the demon Tarakasura received a boon that he could only be killed by a son of Shiva, the gods appealed to Shiva and Parvati. Their union led to the birth of Kartikeya, who grew to become the commander of the divine army. Goddess Parvati, in her form as Skandamata, nurtured and protected him, imparting wisdom and strength. This form emphasizes her role in shaping the divine general, showcasing the profound impact of maternal guidance.
📖**Bestower of Knowledge and Purity:** As the mother of Skanda, who is also known as Kumar, Skandamata is intimately associated with purity, wisdom, and strength. Skanda (Kartikeya) symbolizes divine knowledge and courage. By holding him in her lap, Skandamata signifies that she bestows the knowledge and strength of her son to her devotees. Her worship invokes the powerful protective and nurturing instincts of a mother, assuring her devotees of care, guidance, and triumph over adversities, just as she guided her son to victory.

Divine Forms

ParvatiUmaGauri (in her maternal aspect)Ambika

Sacred Mantras

सिंहासनगता नित्यं पद्माश्रित करद्वया। शुभदास्तु सदा देवी स्कन्दमाता यशस्विनी॥

Siṁhāsanagatā Nityaṁ Padmāśrita Karadvayā। Śubhadāstu Sadā Devi Skandamātā Yaśasvinī॥

"May the illustrious Goddess Skandamata, who always sits on a lion and holds two lotuses in her hands, always bestow auspiciousness upon us."

ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः॥

Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah॥

"Salutations to Goddess Skandamata."

Popular Bhajans & Chalisas

Jai Skandamata Sukhakarni

Hindi

जय स्कंदमाता सुखकारिणी, पाँचवाँ रूप भव तारिणी। गोद में बाल स्कंद बिराजे, दया ममता सब के मन साजे। कमल लिए कर अभय मुद्रा, सिंह पे बैठी जग की मुद्रा। संतान सुख दे, ज्ञान बढ़ावे, तेरे दर पे जो भी आवे।

English

Hail Skandamata, bestower of happiness, The fifth form, savior from worldly fears. Infant Skanda rests in your lap, Compassion and motherly love adorn every heart. Holding lotuses, with a gesture of fearlessness, Seated on a lion, protecting the world. Granting joy of children, increasing wisdom, To whoever comes to your door.

Meaning / Significance

This bhajan reveres Skandamata as the fifth form, a bestower of happiness and a savior. It depicts her holding infant Skanda, embodying compassion. With lotuses and the fearlessness gesture, riding a lion, she is praised for granting the joy of children and wisdom to her devotees.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the primary significance of Skandamata?

Skandamata primarily symbolizes the profound protective and nurturing aspects of motherhood. She embodies unconditional love, purity, and the fierce determination to safeguard her children (devotees). Her form reminds us of the sacredness of the mother-child bond and the strength derived from maternal blessings. She also represents the divine wisdom that a mother imparts to her child.

❓ Why is she depicted with Kartikeya in her lap?

Her depiction with infant Kartikeya (Skanda) in her lap is central to her identity. It highlights her role as the divine mother, emphasizing her maternal affection and the nurturing aspect of Goddess Parvati. It also signifies that worshipping her can bestow the boon of children, protect one's existing children, and foster a strong, loving family life. This posture beautifully conveys both her gentle, maternal side and her inherent power.

❓ What benefits can devotees expect from worshipping Skandamata?

Devotees who worship Skandamata with devotion are blessed with maternal affection, wisdom, and purity. She is believed to grant the boon of children, protect existing progeny, and ensure their well-being. Her worship removes obstacles, bestows prosperity, and helps in overcoming challenges, leading to spiritual liberation and a harmonious life filled with love and compassion.

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