Long ago, before time itself, there was nothing—no sky, no earth, no stars. Just endless darkness. The universe lay silent, waiting for something—someone—to awaken it. Even the gods stood powerless before the vast emptiness.
Then, a glow appeared. Soft at first, like the first rays of dawn, but growing brighter, warmer. That glow wasn’t just light—it was life itself. And at its heart was Maa Kushmanda. She floated in the void, radiating power, her eyes shimmering like unborn stars.
The universe held its breath. And then, she smiled. A gentle, luminous smile. In that instant, the cosmos burst into existence. The sun ignited, filling the void with golden light. The moons, stars, and planets spun into place, dancing in perfect harmony. The universe wasn’t just created—it was awakened by her divine laughter.
She is called Adi Shakti, the Supreme Energy. She didn’t just create the universe; she became its heartbeat, warmth, and breath. Every sunrise, every twinkling star, every drop of life—all exist because Maa Kushmanda willed it so.
But creation needed protection. With eight powerful arms, she carried sacred symbols:
- Kamandal – for purity
- Bow and arrow – for protection
- Lotus flower – for wisdom
- Chakra – for righteousness
- Gada – for strength
- Japa mala – for divine knowledge
- Trishul – to destroy darkness
- Pot of nectar – for eternal bliss
Beside her stood a lion, its golden mane flowing like the sun—a symbol of her unstoppable courage.
Her story teaches us: even in the darkest void, a single spark of light can change everything. If a smile could create the universe, imagine what a little hope and faith can do in our lives. She reminds us that new beginnings are always possible.
On the fourth day of Navratri, devotees honor her, seeking strength, protection, and wisdom. They offer malpua, her favorite sweet, as a symbol of the sweetness she brings into life.
Want to feel her energy? Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and chant:
ॐ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः॥
This mantra carries the warmth of her smile, bringing positivity, courage, and divine blessings.
So, the next time you feel the golden rays of the sun, remember—
it shines because Maa Kushmanda smiled.
Observing the Fast?
Here’s How to Make It More Meaningful & Powerful
What to Do (Beyond the Basics)
- During the fast, try listening to the sound of temple bells, conch shells, or the "Om" mantra. Mata Chandraghanta is associated with the divine bell, which removes negativity from your aura.
- Instead of just sipping plain water, infuse it with tulsi (holy basil), saffron, or cardamom. These sacred elements elevate the sattvic quality of your body, making your fasting more powerful.
- Write down your worries, desires, and gratitude to Mata Chandraghanta. Fold the paper, place it on your altar, and let the energy of your words manifest blessings.
- If possible, drink water or eat from copper or clay utensils. They are believed to balance energy and cleanse toxins from the body.
- If you can, take some time to walk barefoot on grass in the morning. This practice grounds your energy and brings you closer to nature—enhancing your spiritual connection with the Devi.
What to Avoid (That No One Tells You About!)
- Many people replace their regular meals with a feast of fried vrat foods, which defeats the purpose of fasting. Keep it light and high-vibrational instead.
- Avoid spending the day scrolling through your phone, gossiping, or engaging in unnecessary chatter. Keep your mind focused on inner peace.
- Many people think fasting means they should rest all day. But this is a time to be more aware, not lazy! Stay engaged in meditation, reading, or creative work.
Unique Flowers to Offer (Beyond the Common Ones!)
Most people stick to marigold or hibiscus, but you can offer flowers that have deep spiritual meanings:
- Bela (Arabian Jasmine) – Represents purity and divine grace.
- Parijat (Night-flowering Jasmine) – This celestial flower is linked to heavenly blessings.
- Nagkesar (Ceylon Ironwood) – Known for attracting divine energies.
- White Lotus – Symbolizes complete spiritual awakening.
What to Cook (Something Different!)
Instead of the usual Sabudana and Kuttu Poori, try these high-vibrational, sattvic foods:
- Coconut Malpua – Made with coconut flour & jaggery for a naturally sweet, divine treat.
- Saffron & Almond Milk – Strengthens spiritual focus and uplifts energy.
- Foxnut & Pomegranate Raita – Combines the sattvic qualities of makhana (foxnuts) with the high vibration of pomegranate.
- Banana Blossom Stir-Fry – Banana flowers have sacred significance and are high in antioxidants.
- Raw Mango & Jaggery Chutney – Enhances digestion and keeps energy high.
Let Maa Kushmanda’s Light Shine Through You
Maa Kushmanda’s story isn’t just about creation—it’s about finding light in the darkest places. If her one smile could bring the universe to life, imagine what a little faith, a little courage, and a little hope can do for you.
Life isn’t always easy. Some days feel heavy, confusing, even hopeless. But Maa Kushmanda reminds us that no matter how dark things seem, light is always within us. We just have to find it.
Navratri isn’t just about fasting or rituals—it’s about reconnecting with that power inside you. When you chant her mantra, when you close your eyes and truly call upon her, you’re not just praying—you’re lighting up from within. You’re inviting her strength, her warmth, her unstoppable energy into your life.
So, the next time you feel stuck or unsure, just pause. Breathe. Smile. Because if a single smile could create the universe, imagine what yours can do.
Maa Kushmanda is with you. She always has been.
ॐ देवी कूष्माण्डायै नमः॥
