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One of the most significant Hindu festivals is Navratri, which is celebrated with devotion and happiness throughout India. Every day in Navratri is specific to one manifestation of Goddess Durga. The fourth day of Navratri is specifically for the worship of Maa Kushmanda, who is also referred to as the one who creates the universe.
On 2025, the fourth day of Navratri will be marked on September 25, 2025 Thursday. It is a very auspicious day for followers, as praying to Maa Kushmanda is said to impart health, wealth, and prosperity.
The word "Kushmanda" consists of three words – Ku (small), Ushma (energy or warmth), and Anda (cosmic egg). It collectively represents the one who formed the universe with her divine smile and energy. She is shown with eight arms, each holding weapons, rosary, and a nectar jar. Maa Kushmanda sits on a lion, which represents strength and courage. She is also addressed as "Ashtabhuja Devi."
Maa Kushmanda is said to bestow good health, longevity, and spiritual development on her devotees. She dispels fear, heals diseases, and infuses life with good energy. Her worship assists individuals in attaining inner strength, clear mind, and peace. She is also referred to as the goddess of prosperity, power, and happiness.
Maa Kushmanda Puja rituals are devoid of much complexity but abound in devotion:
Early Morning Bath and Cleanliness – Believers get up early in the morning, have a sacred bath, and dress up in clean clothes.
Continuation of Kalash Sthapana – The Kalash put during the initial day of Navratri is prayed to every day.
Offerings to Maa Kushmanda – Maa Kushmanda is offered flowers, incense sticks, dhoop, sweets (particularly malpua), and fruits. Maa Kushmanda is said to adore pumpkin (kaddu), so offering pumpkin on this day is very auspicious.
Chanting Mantras and Aarti – Chanting Maa Kushmanda's mantras, stotras, and doing aarti gives peace and blessings.
Charity and Helping the Needy – Giving food, clothes, or money on this day provides additional merit to the puja.
Every day of Navratri is associated with a specific colour. Day 4 is the colour Green. Green depicts growth, harmony, and fresh starts. Devotees adorn green clothing while praying to Maa Kushmanda to obtain blessings for prosperity and well-being.
