On the fourth day of Navaratri, Maa Kushmanda is worshipped; she is revered as the Goddess who brought the universe into existence through her gentle smile. Depicted with eight arms, the Mother resides at the very center of the Sun sphere, from where she radiates energy and brilliance. It is considered auspicious to wear yellow attire and offer *Malpua* (sweet pancakes) as *Bhog* (sacred food offering) to the Goddess, an act believed to bestow longevity, fame, happiness, and prosperity upon the devotee.
- Form: *Ashtabhuja* (Eight-armed), mounted on a lion (*Simha Vahana*).
- Bhog (Offerings): *Malpua*, *Petha* (yellow-colored sweet), Green Cardamom.
- Color: Yellow (Symbolizing energy and joy).
- Mantra: *Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah*.
Photo: Anil Dave | Dreamstime
1. Worship Method: After taking a morning bath, wear yellow attire. Offer red hibiscus flowers (or a garland of yellow flowers), *Sindoor* (vermilion), *Kajal* (kohl), and *Mauli* (sacred red thread) to the Mother.
2. Significance: Worshipping Maa Kushmanda is believed to alleviate physical ailments, mental distress, and astrological afflictions associated with the planet Mercury.
3. Etymology: 'Ku' means small, 'Ushma' means energy, and 'Anda' means the universe; thus, she is the one who created the universe from a minuscule spark of energy.
It is widely believed that worshipping Maa Kushmanda dispels all the sorrows and tribulations of her devotees, endowing them with radiance, vitality, and spiritual energy.
