Goddess Durga is worshipped as Skanda Mata. Skandmata is the fifth form of Goddess Durga. Mata is mother and Skandmata would mean mother of Skand. Skand is none other than Lord Karthikeya who is also known as Lord Muruga, Kumara Swamy. Lord Skanda is the commander of the army of the Gods. Lord Skanda was responsible for killing the demon Tarakasura and others. Killing of Tarakasura and others is celebrated as Skanda Shashti in Southern India.
Appearance of Skandmata or Skanda Mata
Skandmata or Skanda Mata appears with four hands and is seated on a Lotus. As Skandmata is seated on a Lotus she is also known as Padamasani ( Padma + Asani). Skanda Mata has a white complexion. Skandmata appears to hold two lotuses in two hands. One had would be supporting the child Lord Skanda and the other one is raised to bless the devotees.
Skanda Mata would kill the evil or demons by battling them on her vehicle Lion. The vehicle of Skandmata represents Dharma.