Navratri Day 4: Celebrating Goddess Kushmanda

By Amit Kumar

The fourth day of Navratri holds a special place in the nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine manifestations. Today, devotees across the country celebrate the day dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda, the fourth form of Durga, embodying energy and creativity.

Navratri, a significant Hindu festival, symbolizes the victory of good over evil through the worship of the Divine Feminine. Each day honors a different aspect of Goddess Durga, reflecting her diverse powers and attributes.

On the fourth day, Goddess Kushmanda is worshipped with great devotion. She is believed to be the creator of the universe, whose divine smile illuminated the cosmos. The name “Kushmanda” is derived from three words: ‘Ku’ meaning little, ‘Ushma’ meaning warmth or energy, and ‘Anda’ meaning cosmic egg. Thus, Kushmanda is considered the source of life and energy in the universe.

Devotees seek the blessings of Goddess Kushmanda for health, strength, and prosperity. Many observe fasts and perform rituals in homes and temples, offering red flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity. It is also customary to chant specific mantras and hymns dedicated to her.

Navratri celebrations vary regionally but unanimously focus on invoking the divine feminine power with respect and reverence. The fourth day marks a continuation of the festival’s central theme: honoring femininity, strength, and divine manifestation without exaggeration or prejudice.

As Navratri progresses, the spirit of devotion and unity continues to strengthen, inspiring devotees to seek inner power and harmony.