Kushmanda

Kushmanda is the fourth form of the Hindu goddess Durga. Her name signals her importance: Ku means "a little", Ushma means "warmth" or "energy" and Anda means "cosmic egg". She created the universe with her divine smile.

She is worshiped on the fourth day of the festival of Navratri(nine nights of Navadurga) and as the consort of Shiva. She is believed to improve health and bestow wealth and strength. She is depicted with eight hands holding a discus, sword, hook, mace, bow, arrow and two jars of honey and blood. She rides on a tiger or lion.

When the universe was non-existent and darkness prevailed everywhere, Maa Kushmanda produced the Cosmic egg with her smile, bringing light to the universe. she has the power and strength to live in the core of Sun. Her luminosity gives the Sun its brightness. She is said to give direction to the Sun God, Surya.