Panchami, the fifth day of Durga Puja, marks the moment when Maa Durga’s spirit is ceremonially welcomed from her divine abode into the earthly realm. Devotees believe this day fills the air with sacred energy, setting the spiritual tone for the grander rituals to follow. Panchami is a call to purify the self, awaken devotion, and open the heart to the goddess’s grace.
Worship of Maa Skandamata
On Panchami, devotees worship Maa Skandamata, the compassionate mother of Kartikeya (Skanda). Seated on a lion and holding her divine son in her lap, she represents maternal love, wisdom, and protection. Praying to her is believed to bring peace at home, prosperity in life, and strength to overcome challenges.
Maa Skandamata Mantra
ॐ देवी स्कन्दमातायै नमः।
Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah.
Panchami Morning Rituals
- Purification: Begin with an early bath, wear fresh or new traditional clothes, and cleanse the home and puja altar.
- Puja Setup: Light lamps, offer flowers, incense, bel leaves, fruits, and sweets. Draw alpona (rice-paste floor designs) at the entrance or puja space.
- Scriptural Recitations: Devotees recite verses from the Durga Saptashati or Devi Mahatmya. A widely chanted mantra is:
“Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche.”
- Community Gatherings: Arati (lamp offerings), dhunuchi naach (incense dance), and the sound of conch shells fill the environment with energy and unity.
What to Follow on Panchami (Do’s)
- Rise early, bathe, and keep body and mind pure.
- Worship Maa Skandamata with flowers, lamps, and sattvik food.
- Recite Durga Saptashati, Devi Mahatmya, or participate in community chanting.
- Join in community service—help with pandal decorations, offerings, and collective prayers.
- Maintain a vegetarian diet; fasting with fruits and milk is considered auspicious.
What to Avoid on Panchami (Don’ts)
- Avoid meat, onion, garlic, alcohol, or any tamasic food.
- Do not engage in gossip, anger, or negative speech.
- Refrain from unnecessary travel or distractions from puja.
- Do not neglect devotion in the busyness of preparations—inner discipline is as important as outer rituals.
Community and Cultural Traditions
Panchami is also the day when the idols are placed in pandals across Bengal and beyond. Communities come together to decorate, light lamps, arrange offerings, and welcome Maa Durga. The air resonates with conch shells, ululation, and devotional songs, symbolizing unity and readiness for the goddess’s blessings.
By worshipping Maa Skandamata, chanting her mantra, and practicing discipline in thought and action, devotees invoke her maternal grace. This day teaches us compassion, humility, and purity—the very values that sustain both family and community life.
As we light lamps and chant mantras together on Panchami, we invite not only Maa Skandamata’s blessings but also harmony and strength into our lives.
Feature Image Credit: Pinterest.
