Maa Skand mata is the fifth avatar of Devi Durga. On the Panchami Tithi, Shukla Paksha Ashwin, the Skanda Mata form of Mother Goddess is worshipped.

Origin:

       When Goddess Parvati became the mother of Lord Skanda (also known as Lord Kartikeya), Mata Parvati was known as Goddess Skanda mata. Maa Skandamata has four hands, two of her upper hands are carrying Lotus flowers, her lower right hand is cradling baby Karthikeya and her lower left hand is in Abhaya Mudra. Devotees who worship  Devi Skanda mata achieve 'Salvation' or 'Moksha'. One who prays with undivided attention, also seeks blessing from Lord Skanda.

Iconography:

        Goddess Skanda mata mounts on the ferocious lion. She carries baby Murugan in her lap. Lord Murugan is also known as Kartikeya and brother of Lord Ganesha. Goddess Skanda mata is depicted with four hands. She carries lotus flowers in her upper two hands. She holds baby Murugan in one of her right hand and keeps the other right hand in Abhaya Mudra. She sits on lotus flower and because of that Skanda mata is also known as Goddess Padmasana.It is believed that she awards devotees with salvation, power, prosperity and treasures. She can grant oceans of wisdom even to most illiterate person, if he happens to worship her. Devi Skanda mātā who possesses the brilliance of the sun fulfills all the desires of her devotees. He who is selflessly devoted to her, attains all the achievements and treasures of life. The devotees who worship  Devi Skanda mātā shine with divine splendour. Her worship is ultimately conducive to salvation. She is regularly known as "The Goddess of Fire".

Maa Skanda mata Puja Vidhi:

        Devotees offer her red flowers or specifically, hibiscus flowers. One has to do Sadhna of pure Chakra on the fifth day. Sit on a blanket or seat made of Kush and begin to chant the mantra provided below.

Favourite Flower:

Red color flowers

Mantra:

"Om Devi Skandamatayai Namah॥"

Stuti:

"Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Ma Skandamata Rupena Samsthita।
Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah॥"

Perform the Panchopchara puja by offering Gandham, Pushpam, Deepam, Sugandham and Naivedyam (blog). 

- Offer shringar items (sindoor, mehendi, kajal, bindi, bangles, toe ring, comb, aalta, mirror, anklets, perfume, earrings, nosepin, necklace, red chunri, mahavar, hairpins etc)

-Worship Maa Skanda Mata and offer Banana and/or any other fruit as Bhog. - - Conclude the puja by singing the Aarti and offer your salutations to her by lighting the camphor. After the puja, distribute prasad.

Happy Navaratri