The 5th day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Skandamata, the 5th manifestation of Goddess Durga and the mother of Lord Kartikeya, who was chosen by the devatas as their commander in chief in the war against the demons. The image of Devi Skandamata portrays Her holding Lord Skanda in his infant form and a lotus in her right hand. She has four arms, three eyes and a bright complexion. She is also called as Padamasani since She is often depicted seated on a lotus flower in her idol. She is also worshiped in the form of Parvati, Maheshwari or Mata Gauri. The left arm of the goddess is in a pose to grant boons with grace to her devotees. In 2026, Maa Skandamata will be worshipped on Thursday, October 15, the fifth day of Shardiya Navratri.
The legend says that Tarkasur, a great demon, once pleased Lord Brahma with his great devotion and extremely tough penance. He asked Lord Brahma to shower His blessings and make him immortal. Lord Brahma denied him this blessing, saying none can escape death. Tarkasur acted smart and asked for the death by the son of Lord Shiva, since he thought Lord Shiva would never get married. Tarkasur started tormenting the people on the earth. Fearing his strength would cause destruction, the devatas requested Lord Shiva to get married. He agreed and married Goddess Parvati. Their child, Lord Kartikeya/ Skand Kumar, demolished Tarkasur. Devi Skandmata is a symbol of the mother-son relationship.
By worshipping Her, you get immense love and affection from her and gets all desires fulfilled. You may attain supreme joy even in this very mortal world. Her worship automatically includes the worship of Lord Kartikeya (in his child form).
Navratri 5th Day 2026: Important Dates and Timings
| Navratri Day 5 Details | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Navratri 5th Day Puja Date | Thursday, October 15, 2026 |
| Goddess | Maa Skandamata |
| Panchami Tithi Begins | 01:14 AM on Oct 15, 2026 |
| Panchami Tithi Ends | 03:26 AM on Oct 16, 2026 |
| Colour of the Day | Yellow |
| Chakra | Vishuddha Chakra |
Chant this mantra to worship Goddess Skandamata…
सिंघासनगता नित्यम पद्माश्रितकरद्वया |
शुभदास्तु सदा देवी स्कन्द माता यशश्विनी ||
Siṅghāsanagatā nityama padmāśritakaradvayā |
śubhadāstu sadā dēvī skanda mātā yaśaśvinī ||
Navratri is a special occasion. A time for new beginnings and offering your dedication and reverence to the Goddess Shakti. This Navratri, bring home and institute a Meru Prusth Shree Yantra – a beautiful, divine symbol of the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi herself.
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FAQs
Who is worshipped on the fifth day of Navratri?
On the fifth day of Navratri, Maa Skandamata, the fifth manifestation of Goddess Durga and the mother of Lord Kartikeya, is worshipped.
What is the significance of Maa Skandamata?
Maa Skandamata symbolizes the mother-son relationship and is known for granting love, affection, and fulfillment of desires to her devotees. Her worship also includes the worship of Lord Kartikeya in his child form.
When is the fifth day of Navratri in 2026?
In 2026, the fifth day of Navratri falls on Thursday, October 15.
What is the legend associated with Maa Skandamata?
The legend of Maa Skandamata is associated with the demon Tarkasur who, after receiving a boon from Lord Brahma, could only be killed by the son of Lord Shiva. Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, ultimately defeated Tarkasur.
How is Maa Skandamata depicted?
Maa Skandamata is depicted with four arms, three eyes, and a bright complexion. She holds Lord Skanda in his infant form and a lotus in her right hand, often seated on a lotus flower, which is why she is also called Padamasani.
