Navratri 2020: The Sharad Navratri has begun from Saturday and the nine-day long celebration of goddess Durga's manifestations will continue till October 25, Sunday. On the fourth day prayers are offered to Maa Kushmanda who signifies the 'cosmic egg'. She is referred to as the creator of the universe is often called 'Adishakti' or 'Adiswarup'. She is supposed to be so powerful that she glows like the sun. Devotees worship the goddess for health, wealth, and strength.

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According to scriptures, goddess Kushmanda is supposed to have created the universe out of nothing. When Lord Vishnu started creating the universe, she smiled and dispelled the darkness. She became the source of all the planets and stars.

Since the goddess has eight hands she known as Ashtabhuja Devi. The goddess is usually shown holding a trident, discus, sword, hook, mace, bow, arrow, two jars of honey and blood. One of her hand makes the abhayamudra and with this she blesses devotees.

Rituals

  • Worship the Kalash that was installed on the first day of navratri and then offer prayers to all the Gods and Goddesses included in the family of Mother Durga .

  • After this prayers to Goddess Kushmanda is offered

  • After that Lord Bholenath is worshipped

  • The devotee who worships the goddess with reverence will be able to end all kinds of sufferings

  • Devotees also chant Om Devi Kushmandayai Namah a hundred and eight times in front of the Kalash