Sat Oct 05 14:56:50 UTC 2024: ## Mother Kushmanda: The Divine Force of Creation Celebrated on Day Four of Navratri

**Mumbai:** The fourth day of Shardiya Navratri, celebrated with fervor across India, is dedicated to the worship of Mother Kushmanda, the fourth form of Durga. Revered as the goddess of creation, Kushmanda is believed to have brought the universe into existence with her radiant smile.

According to Hindu mythology, this eight-armed goddess, riding a lion, carries a kamandal (pot of nectar), bow and arrow, lotus, a pot filled with amrita (elixir of immortality), rosary, mace, and discus. Devotees believe that worshipping her brings blessings of good health, prosperity, and mental peace.

“Kushmanda means ‘one who produces from the cosmic egg’,” explains a devotee at a local temple. “Her worship is said to eradicate diseases and grant longevity. It’s believed that she fulfills desires and bestows her devotees with immense strength and power.”

For devotees seeking her blessings, the traditional rituals include:

* **Morning Rituals:** Begin the day with a bath and decorate the shrine. Offer Kushmanda Devi kumkum (vermilion powder), mauli (sacred thread), akshat (rice grains), red flowers, fruits, betel nut, saffron, and other offerings.
* **Offering:** The most favoured offering for Kushmanda is malpua (a sweet pancake), believed to please the goddess.
* **Mantras and Chanting:** Recite the Durga Chalisa, Durga Saptshati, and the mantras and hymns dedicated to Mother Kushmanda.
* **Aarti:** Perform the aarti, concluding with an apology for any unintentional mistakes.

“The devotion and rituals associated with Kushmanda Devi are a powerful reminder of the divine power within us and the potential for positive transformation in our lives,” adds another devotee.

As the festival progresses, the celebration of Mother Kushmanda on the fourth day highlights the strength, beauty, and creative energy associated with this form of the Divine Mother, reminding all devotees of the blessings she showers upon those who seek her grace.

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