The fourth day of Navratri, celebrated today, is dedicated to the worship of Mother Kushmanda, the fourth form of Goddess Durga. Known as Ashtabhuja Devi for her eight arms, she wields various symbols of power, such as a kamandal (water pot), bow, arrows, discus, mace, lotus flower, nectar pot, and rosary. Believed to have created the universe with her smile, Mother Kushmanda brings light into the primordial darkness, and is associated with solar energy and vitality.

Devotees are encouraged to perform specific rituals beginning early in the morning. This includes bathing, wearing clean clothes, and meditating on the image of Mother Kushmanda. Offerings made during the worship should include a ghee lamp, yellow flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, and food such as malpua. For those unable to prepare malpua, offering any yellow-colored sweet is considered acceptable. The rituals help the devotees connect with divine energy and seek blessings of strength and wellness.

The worship of Mother Kushmanda signifies an important aspect of the Navratri festival, emphasizing the connection between spirituality and personal empowerment. This period is revered as a time of reflection, devotion, and community among practitioners, as they gather to celebrate the divine feminine in various forms and seek guidance and blessings for the days ahead.