The Human Cohesion Project — 6 Oct 2024

On this fourth day of Navaratri, we invoke Kushmanda, the goddess who is said to have created the universe with her radiant smile. Her name derives from three words: “Ku” (little), “Ushma” (energy or warmth), and “Anda” (cosmic egg), reflecting the belief that this aspect of the feminine brought forth the cosmos with a simple gesture of joy. Kushmanda symbolises the power of creation through light and warmth, reminding us of the generative energy we all carry within.

In mythology, Kushmanda is believed to have existed when the universe was nothing but darkness. Her smile, representing the purest form of light and joy, penetrated this void and created life. She rides a lion, symbolising her strength and courage, and is often depicted with eight arms holding various weapons, flowers, and sacred objects. Kushmanda’s energy teaches us that even in the darkest moments, we hold the power to create, to bring light and life into being with the warmth of our inner spirit.

Kushmanda’s story speaks to the significance of joy as a creative force. In a world often overwhelmed by conflict and sorrow, she reminds us of the potential we have to shape our reality through our inner light. Her myth encourages us to nurture our own creative power, to understand that even small acts of kindness, warmth, and compassion can ripple outwards, creating positive change in ways we may not immediately see.

How can we embody this energy today? How can we smile into the void and create hope where it feels absent?

Shubh Navaratri. May Kushmanda’s radiant energy guide us to bring warmth and light into our world, even in the face of darkness.

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