Sun Oct 06 06:51:46 UTC 2024: ## Maa Kushmanda: The Fourth Form of Goddess Durga Celebrated on the Fourth Day of Navratri

**New Delhi, India:** As the auspicious festival of Shardiya Navratri unfolds, devotees across India are celebrating the fourth day dedicated to Maa Kushmanda, the fourth form of Goddess Durga. Known as the Adi Shakti (primordial power), Maa Kushmanda is believed to have created the universe with her radiant smile when the world was enveloped in darkness.

This year, the fourth day of Navratri falls on [Date]. On this day, devotees are encouraged to worship Maa Kushmanda with a calm and peaceful heart, accompanied by sweet melodies.

**The Iconography of Maa Kushmanda:**

Depicted with eight arms, Maa Kushmanda holds a variety of objects symbolizing her divine powers. In her seven hands, she holds a pot of nectar, bow, arrow, lotus flower, pitcher, chakra, and a mace. Her eighth hand holds a garland that bestows all blessings and wealth. The nectar pot in her hand signifies the grant of longevity and good health to her devotees.

Maa Kushmanda rides a lion, which represents the strength of Dharma (righteousness).

**Rituals and Offerings:**

On the fourth day of Navratri, it is customary to wear green or orange clothing. Devotees offer green cardamom, fennel seeds, or pumpkin to Maa Kushmanda. It is believed that one should offer as many green cardamoms as their age, reciting “Om Bum Budhaya Namah” with each offering. The cardamoms should be collected and tied in a green cloth, then kept safely throughout Navratri.

**Propitiating Maa Kushmanda:**

Those seeking blessings and relief from difficulties associated with Mercury (Budh) in their astrological charts are advised to worship Maa Kushmanda.

A specific offering on this day is believed to appease the Goddess. Devotees should offer yogurt and halwa to Maa Kushmanda. Following the offering, fruits, dry fruits, and auspicious items should be presented to seek her blessings and fulfillment of wishes.

**Seeking Divine Grace:**

By worshipping Maa Kushmanda with devotion and sincerity, devotees can seek her grace and obtain happiness and fulfillment in life.

**Note:** This news article provides a summary of the text and emphasizes the key aspects of celebrating Maa Kushmanda on the fourth day of Navratri.

Read More