Introduction
Goddess Kushmanda is the Supreme Energy who created the whole universe. She is the energy source not only for the creation of the entire universe but also for the existence of life on Earth. Therefore people worship the goddess on the Fourth Day of Navratri.
She went to reside in the Sun's core making this universe so that life processes could sustain on Earth. In the below article, you will learn about how she created the universe, the actual meaning of the name Kushmanda, and many other exciting things. So keep scrolling the text below.
Who Is Goddess Kushmanda?
Goddess Kushmanda is one of the Manifestations of Navdurga who appeared as the 'Ball of Energy' around the time of the beginning of the universe. The energy ball was none other but the Mahashakti herself who then took the form of Divine Lady and created the whole universe with her beautiful smile. That divine figure is worshipped as 'Goddess Kushmanda'.
What Does The Name 'Kushmanda' Mean?
'Kushmanda', is a Sanskrit word that breaks into three elements - 'Ku', 'Ushma', and "Anda'. These three elements have different meanings individually and collectively refer to 'A Ball of Energy' or 'A Little Sphere of Energy'. The 'Ku' element refers to - Little, 'Ushma' to - Energy, and 'Anda' to - Egg or the Cosmic Egg, respectively. Thus the name Kushmanda means 'A Little Sphere of Energy' or simply 'A Ball of Energy.
What Is The Hindu Tale Behind The Birth of Goddess Kushmanda?
According to the tales in Markandeya Purana, at the time of the beginning of the universe, there was nothing in the universe and the space was filled with black. But, around the time of the beginning of the universe, a beam of light (energy) filled the entire space and started to take form into a divine lady.
This way the energy transformed into a divine lady and appeared as Goddess Kushmanda. She then created the whole universe with her smile and then went into the Sun's core and resided there to sustain the process of life on Earth.
Goddess Kushmanda Depiction
Her depiction has been described in detail in Devi Mahatmya. The sacred text depicts the Goddess Kushmanda sitting on a Lion. She holds Chakra, Trishul, Mace, and a Sword in her left hand while the right hand is equipped with Lotus flower, Kamandalu, Bow, and Arrow.
Devi Mahatmya is part of the Markandeya Purana, which describes the glory and power of 'Devi (Hindu Goddess) in her various forms. The sacred text (Devi Mahatmya) is also known as Durga Saptashati as it consists of 700 verses, praising and glorifying the goddess in different forms. The Sanskrit word for 700 - Saptashati is used to refer to the text.
Image: Goddess Kushmanda
Significance of Various Iconographies of Goddess Kushmanda
Chakra
Goddess Kushmanda holds Chakra in her left hand which is a circular disc-like weapon that represents the power of knowledge. The Chakra is also a symbol of the cycle of time and the eternal nature of the universe.
Holding a Chakra in her hand means she can cut the obstacles in the lives of her devotees and bless them with energy and confidence to move forward.
Also, the 'Sudarshan Chakra' is the Primary Weapon of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna who are one of the Supreme deities in Hinduism. While Lord Krishna is none other but one amongst the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
Image: Chakra Weapon
Trishul, Mace, Bow & Arrow, Sword
They are the key weapons of many Hindu Deities and therefore have significant importance. We have discussed them in detail in the article 'Goddess Chandraghanta: The war ready Goddess Worshipped on the Third Day of Navratri'.
Note: Click here to learn more about them.
Lotus flower, Kamandalam
Lotus flower and Kamandalam are the things that relate to asceticism. They associate specifically with the depiction of Goddess Brahamacharini. Learn more about them in our other article entitled "Goddess Brahmacharini: Worshipping who on the Second Day of Navratri can provide peace".
Note: Click here to learn more about 'Goddess Shailaputri: Worshipping whom on the First Day of Navratri can bring Peace'.
Kushmanda Fruit
In addition to the Goddess name of Kushmanda Devi, the word Kushmanda means Pumpkin or Kaddu in another context. It is a large, round fruit that has smooth green skin and white flesh inside. It is rich in nutrients and provides a lot of energy for consumption. Because It is offered to the goddess on the Ninth Day of Navratri as a form of sacrifice, it is popularly known as 'Kushmanda Fruit'.
Image: Kushmanda Fruit (Pumpkin)
The Kushmanda Fruit is known for its numerous health benefits. It is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an ideal food for weight loss and digestion. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, which help boost immunity and promote overall health.
Goddess Kushmanda Temples
There are various temples in India dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda. Some of the popular temples among them are listed below.
Vaishno Devi Temple, J & K
The Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most popular pilgrimages in India. Because the goddess is believed to have appeared here as Vaishno Devi to bless her devotees, the shrine is considered the holiest among the 51 Shaktipeeths. The temple is situated in Reasi District in Jammu and Kashmir.
Image: Vaishno Devi Temple, J & K
Naina Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh
The Naina Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh is located on a hilltop near the town of Bilaspur. This temple is amongst one of the 51 Shaktipeeths. It is believed that the goddess appeared here to bless her devotees with her grace.
Image: Naina Devi Temple, HP
Navdurga Temple, Varanasi
The Navdurga Temple in Varanasi is dedicated to the nine forms of the goddess, including Kushmanda. The specific temple dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda is located in the south of Assi Ghat on Khojwan Rd, Near Gandhi Chowk, Bhelupur.
Image: Durga Mata Mandir, Varanasi
The temple painted in red is famously known as Shri Durga Mata Mandir. It is situated next to a famous water body called 'Durga Kund' which has a very holy significance as it was earlier connected to the holy river Ganga. The temple is believed to be amongst the ancient temples in Varanasi and worshipping here can bring prosperity, success, and happiness to the devotees.
Tulija Bhavani Temple, Maharashtra
The Tulija Bhavani Temple in Maharashtra is dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, who is believed to be another form of Goddess Kushmanda. The temple is located at Mahadwar Road in Dharashiv District of Maharashtra. It is a popular pilgrimage and among one of the 51 Shaktipeeths. This is the reason the temple has special religious significance.
Why Should You Worship Goddess Kushmanda?
In today's world where stress anxiety and uncertainty are prevalent, the energy of Goddess Kushmanda can provide you with a sense of calm and inner peace. Her divine grace can help us overcome our fears and anxieties and navigate the challenges of life with confidence and resilience. Therefore, you should worship her and connect with her energy to tap your inner strength and achieve goals in life.
Key Facts to Note Down About Goddess Kushmanda
(a) Goddess Kushmanda is the source of energy for the creation of the Universe and for life-sustaining on Earth.
(b) The word 'Kushmanda' means the small ball of energy or a sphere of energy.
(c) Kushmanda Fruit is offered to the goddess as a sacrifice to please her.
(d) Her other name is 'Ashtabhuj Devi' because she has eight hands.
(e) Navdurga Temple in Varanasi, Naina Devi Temple in Himachal Pradesh, and Tulija Bhavani Temple in Maharashtra are some of the Popular temples of Goddess Kushmanda.
Conclusion
The significance of the Goddess Kushmanda goes beyond religious beliefs and is relevant to people of all faiths and backgrounds. She provides warmth and energy to the world making it possible for life to thrive on earth. She is the symbol of Universal Energy and embodies that feminine energy that is present in all of us regardless any gender.
FAQs
Q1. What does Maa Kushmanda Symbolize?
Ans. Goddess Kushmanda is the symbol of Supreme Energy in the universe. The name 'Kushmanda' is the Sanskrit word that means 'a little sphere of energy'. She created the universe with her energy and provided the Earth with life energy.
Q2. What are the benefits of worshipping goddess Kushmanda?
Ans. Goddess Kushmanda is the universal energy whose blessings can provide you energy and confidence to fight challenges with confidence. You will be able to connect with her energy by worshipping her.
Q3. Why Pumpkin is called 'Kushmanda Fruit'?
Ans. Pumpkin is the fruit that is rich in nutrients and provides lot of vitamin and minerals. As the characteristics of the fruit associates with 'Goddess Kushmanda', it is offered to her as a sacrifice. Because, of such significance, the pumpkin is awarded with the name 'Kushmanda Fruit'.
