Navratri 2017, Day 4—Pray to Maa Kushmanda for good health

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New Delhi: The auspicious nine-day festival of Navratri is in full swing and celebrations can be seen across the globe. Not just in our country, but Devi devotees worship the goddess and immerse in the festive fervour on international land as well. 

On day four of Navratri, we worship goddess Durga's another powerful avatar. Mata Kushmanda is prayed to on Chaturthi Tithi (day 4) of Navratri. Ku means 'a little', Ushma means 'warmth' or 'energy', and Anda means 'cosmic egg'. Goddess Kushmanda is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile.

The manifestation of Durga, called Kushmanda, is worshipped on the fourth day of Navratra. It is believed that it is this form of Durga which eliminated darkness from the world with her smile. And hence, every idol of the goddess in this form has a benevolent smile on her face.

Maa Kushmanda is Lord Shiva's consort and improves the health of the devotee. She also bestows immense wealth and strength to her bhakts.

Chant Maa Kushmanda's mantra to seek her blessings:

सुरासम्पूर्णकलशं रुधिराप्लुतमेव च।

दधाना हस्तपद्माभ्यां कूष्माण्डा शुभदास्तु मे॥

Fold your hands, close your eyes and hail the goddess!