The story of Maa Skandmata is mentioned in Hindu mythology and Puranas. According to the legends, she is the mother of Lord Skanda (also known as Kartikeya), who was born from the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. When Lord Skanda was born, he was immediately taken to be raised by the six celestial maidens known as the Krittikas. Maa Skandmata is said to have brought up her son with love and devotion and protected him from harm.
The worship of Maa Skandmata is particularly popular in North India and her katha (story) is often recited during puja ceremonies or religious gatherings.
The story of Maa Skandmata highlights the importance of motherly love and devotion and is considered as a symbol of strength and protection.
Maa Skandmata ka bhog
Maa Skandmata Bhog, also known as the offering to the deity, is an important part of Hindu puja rituals. It usually consists of various food items such as sweets, fruits, and flowers, which are offered to the deity as a symbol of love and respect.
The specific items offered as Maa Skandmata Bhog can vary depending on regional and cultural customs, but some common items include:
- Sweets such as peda, kheer, and ladoo
- Fruits such as bananas, mangoes, and coconut
- Flowers, especially red and yellow hued blooms
- Rice
- Incense sticks and camphor
The Bhog is usually offered to the deity during the puja ceremony, accompanied by prayers and hymns, and is then distributed among the devotees as prasad.
Here is a traditional Maa Skandmata Aarti in Hindi:
ॐ जय माँ स्कन्दमाता, तूही जग में प्रख्याता ।
त्वं ही सुख कथा, हमेशा है तेरा स्वागता ॥
त्वं ही अपने बच्चे के जीवन, का संरक्षक हो ।
मातृत्व, मातृभक्ति, और प्रेम, तूही सब हो ॥
त्वं ही श्रृंगार, त्वं ही पूजा, होती है पूज्य ।
हमेशा है तेरी कृपा, सदा है तेरी धृति सुज्ञा ॥
जय माँ स्कन्दमाता, जय माँ स्कन्दमाता ।
त्वं ही हमारे माता, तूही हमारी पूजा ॥