Navratri is a nine-day festival dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Each day has its own significance and is devoted to a specific form of the Goddess. The 4th day of Chaitra Navratri is dedicated to Maa Kushmanda, the fourth form of Goddess Durga. She is believed to be the creator of the universe and the one who brings light and energy to the world.
In this blog, we will explore the significance, rituals, prasad, color of the day, and other important aspects of worshiping Maa Kushmanda on the 4th day of Chaitra Navratri.
Table of Contents
Who is Maa Kushmanda?
Maa Kushmanda is the fourth form of Goddess Durga, who is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile. The name “Kushmanda” is derived from three words:
- ‘Ku’ means little
- ‘Ushma’ means warmth or energy
- ‘Anda’ means cosmic egg
This signifies that Maa Kushmanda is the cosmic energy that brought life into existence. She is depicted with eight hands, holding a kamandalu, bow, arrow, lotus, chakra, gada, and a jar of nectar (amrit). She rides a lion, symbolizing strength and courage.
Significance of Worshiping Maa Kushmanda
- Creator of the Universe – It is believed that she created the universe with her smile when there was nothing but darkness.
- Bestower of Energy and Health – Devotees worship her for good health, energy, and well-being.
- Remover of Sorrows and Worries – Her blessings help in removing obstacles and bringing positivity.
- Blessings of Prosperity and Knowledge – She grants wealth, wisdom, and success to her devotees.
- Spiritual Awakening – Worshiping her helps in enhancing spiritual growth and inner strength.
Rituals of the 4th Day of Chaitra Navratri
The fourth day of Navratri is very auspicious, and special rituals are performed to seek Maa Kushmanda’s blessings.
Early Morning Rituals
- Wake up early and take a bath.
- Clean the worship area and purify it with Gangajal.
- Wear fresh clothes, preferably in the auspicious color of the day (Green).
Puja Rituals
- Place the idol or image of Maa Kushmanda on a clean altar.
- Light a ghee lamp and offer flowers, incense, and dhoop.
- Offer fruits, sweets, and coconut as prasad.
- Chant the Maa Kushmanda mantra.
- Recite Durga Saptashati or Kushmanda Stotra.
- Perform aarti with devotion.
Fasting Rituals
- Many devotees observe a fast and consume only fruits and milk.
- Those who do not follow a strict fast eat simple satvik food.
- Avoid consuming garlic, onion, and non-vegetarian food.
Mantra to Chant on the 4th Day
Chanting the below mantra with devotion helps in seeking Maa Kushmanda’s blessings:
“ॐ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः”
(Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah)
Baglamukhi Mandir kangra Himachal Pradesh History
Color of the Day: Green
Each day of Navratri has a specific color associated with it. The color for the 4th day is Green, which symbolizes prosperity, harmony, and growth. Devotees wear green-colored clothes to attract Maa Kushmanda’s positive energy.
| Day | Goddess | Color | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4th Day | Maa Kushmanda | Green | Growth, Prosperity, Harmony |
Prasad Offered to Maa Kushmanda
Offering prasad to Maa Kushmanda is considered highly auspicious. It is believed that she loves Malpua, a sweet dish made from flour, milk, and sugar.
| Prasad | Ingredients | Significance |
| Malpua | Flour, milk, sugar, cardamom | Brings happiness and prosperity |
| Coconut | Fresh coconut, jaggery | Symbolizes purity and devotion |
| Fruits | Bananas, apples, pomegranate | Represents health and well-being |
Benefits of Worshiping Maa Kushmanda
Devotees believe that worshiping Maa Kushmanda brings several benefits:
- Brings Light and Positivity – She removes darkness from life and fills it with positivity.
- Health and Strength – She blesses her devotees with good health and strength.
- Wealth and Prosperity – Her worship attracts financial growth and success.
- Removes Fear – She eliminates fear and insecurities from the minds of her devotees.
- Enhances Spiritual Growth – She helps in deepening spiritual awareness and inner wisdom.
Mythological Story of Maa Kushmanda
According to Hindu mythology, before the creation of the universe, there was nothing but darkness. Maa Kushmanda created the universe with her divine smile. She then created the Sun, Moon, and other celestial bodies to bring light to the universe.
It is also believed that she resides in the core of the Sun and provides it with energy. This is why she is considered the Goddess of warmth and vitality.
| Aspect | Details |
| Origin | Created the universe with her smile |
| Vehicle | Lion |
| Symbol | Sun, warmth, energy |
| Blessings | Prosperity, strength, wisdom |
How to Celebrate the 4th Day of Chaitra Navratri at Home?
- Cleanse Your Home and Altar – Start the day by cleaning the home and worship area.
- Dress in Green – Wear green clothes to align with the energy of Maa Kushmanda.
- Prepare Malpua as Prasad – Cook and offer Malpua as it is her favorite.
- Perform Aarti and Bhajans – Sing bhajans and perform aarti with full devotion.
- Donate to the Needy – Offer food, clothes, and money to those in need.
Conclusion
The 4th day of Chaitra Navratri is dedicated to Maa Kushmanda, the Goddess who created the universe and radiates immense energy. Worshiping her with devotion brings prosperity, health, wisdom, and happiness. Following the rituals, wearing the auspicious color, and offering the right prasad can help devotees receive her divine blessings.
May Maa Kushmanda shower her blessings upon you and fill your life with positivity and success!
Astrology has always fascinated me, and that’s why I founded Astrofite.com. I’m Pratiksha, and I believe in the power of cosmic energies to guide us toward a better life. Through Astrofite, I aim to bring clarity and spiritual growth to those seeking answers beyond the ordinary.