“Simhasanagatanityam Padmashritakaradvayaa Shubhadastu sada Devi Skandmata Yashaswini” is a Dhyan Mantra dedicated to Goddess Skandamata, the fifth form of the Navadurga (nine forms of Goddess Durga) worshipped during the Navratri festival. Dhyan Mantras are used for meditation and visualization of a deity’s form. This particular mantra describes Skandamata’s iconography and invokes her blessings for auspiciousness, protection, and fame. It is a powerful tool for connecting with her compassionate and motherly energy.

Mantra Meaning Breakdown

  • Simhasanagatanityam: This translates to “She who is always (nityam) seated (gata) on a lion throne (Simhasana).” “Simha” means “lion,” “Asana” means “seat” or “throne,” and “Nityam” means “always” or “eternally.” This phrase describes Skandamata’s majestic form, seated on her lion, which symbolizes power, courage, and royalty.
  • Padmashritakaradvayaa: This translates to “She whose two (dvayaa) hands (kara) are holding (ashrita) lotuses (Padma).” “Padma” means “lotus,” “Ashrita” means “holding” or “supported by,” “Kara” means “hands,” and “Dvayaa” means “two.” This describes the Goddess holding lotus flowers in her two hands, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.
  • Shubhadastu: This translates to “may she grant auspiciousness” or “may she bestow blessings.” “Shubha” means “auspicious,” “good,” or “beneficial,” and “Astu” means “may it be” or “let it be.” It is a prayer for the Goddess’s benevolent blessings.
  • Sada: This means “always” or “ever.” It emphasizes the continuous flow of blessings from the Goddess.
  • Devi: This means “Goddess,” a respectful way to address the divine feminine.
  • Skandmata: This is the name of the Goddess, the fifth form of Navadurga. “Skanda” refers to Kartikeya, the god of war and her son, and “Mata” means “mother.” Her name literally means “the Mother of Skanda.”
  • Yashaswini: This translates to “renowned,” “famous,” “glorious,” or “one who bestows fame.” It is an epithet of the Goddess, highlighting her power to grant fame, success, and recognition to her devotees.

Full Meaning

The Skandamata Dhyan Mantra “Simhasanagatanityam Padmashritakaradvayaa Shubhadastu sada Devi Skandmata Yashaswini” is a beautiful invocation and visualization of Goddess Skandamata. It can be translated as: “May the ever glorious Goddess Skandamata, who is always seated on a lion throne and holds lotuses in her two hands, always bestow auspiciousness upon me.” The mantra describes the Goddess seated majestically on her lion, holding lotuses, symbolizing her power, purity, and divine grace. It is a prayer for her continuous blessings, seeking her protection, guidance, and the bestowal of fame and success. The devotee visualizes her divine form and seeks to connect with her compassionate and motherly energy.

Benefits

Chanting the Skandamata Dhyan Mantra, particularly during Navratri, is believed to offer numerous benefits:

  • Motherly Love and Protection: As the mother of Skanda (Kartikeya), Skandamata embodies motherly love and protection. Chanting this mantra is believed to invoke her nurturing energy and provide a sense of security.
  • Blessings for Children: The mantra is particularly beneficial for those seeking blessings for their children’s well-being, success, and protection.
  • Removal of Obstacles: Skandamata is known for her power to remove obstacles. Chanting this mantra is believed to help overcome hurdles and challenges in all areas of life.
  • Fame and Recognition: The epithet “Yashaswini” indicates that Skandamata can bestow fame and recognition upon her devotees. This mantra is said to be beneficial for those seeking success and acknowledgment in their chosen field.
  • Courage and Strength: The lion, Skandamata’s mount, symbolizes courage and strength. Chanting this mantra is believed to instill these qualities in the devotee.
  • Spiritual Growth: By connecting with Skandamata’s energy, the mantra can aid in spiritual growth, deepen devotion, and foster a stronger connection with the divine feminine.
  • Peace and Harmony: The mantra promotes inner peace, tranquility, and harmony within the family.
  • Fulfillment of Desires: With sincere devotion, chanting this mantra can help to fulfill righteous desires that are aligned with one’s highest good.
  • She is said to purify the hearts of her devotees and guide them on the path of righteousness. This highlights her role as a spiritual guide.
  • She is also believed to enhance one’s intellect and wisdom. This reflects her association with knowledge and learning, as the mother of the wise Kartikeya.

The Skandamata Dhyan Mantra is a powerful tool for invoking the compassionate and protective energy of Goddess Skandamata. To experience its full benefits, it is important to chant the mantra with devotion, focus, and a clear understanding of its meaning. Regular and consistent practice is key to unlocking the mantra’s transformative power. It is often chanted during Navratri, particularly on the fifth day, which is dedicated to Skandamata. However, it can be chanted at any time to seek her blessings for protection, success, and overall well-being.