Navaratri Day 5 honors Skandamata, focusing on motherhood, protection of children, and nurturing wisdom. This page is part of Vedic Matters’ day-by-day Navadurga series — nine classical forms, with Vijayadashami as the tenth day’s victory.
Who is Skandamata?
Skandamata is the mother of Skanda (Kartikeya/Murugan). She is depicted holding the child Skanda, often seated on a lion, radiating maternal compassion joined to warrior lineage.
Symbolism for Day 5
Day 5 honors care that is strong — parenting, mentoring, and sheltering the vulnerable as sacred duty.
Puja and home observance
Pray for children’s welfare. Offer bananas, milk, or panjiri. Families with little ones may do a special aarti for Skandamata.
Mantra
Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah
Chant with a calm breath during aarti. Pair the mantra with the Devi’s visualization described above.
Regional notes
In Tamil contexts Murugan devotion resonates; everywhere, mothers lead home pujas with special tenderness tonight.
Continue the series
Previous: Day 4 — Kushmanda · Next: Day 6 — Katyayani
Overview: 10 days across India · Hub: Navaratri complete guide.
