Sankata Devi is a manifestation of Goddess Shakti. In this manifestation,
she removes the difficulties of her devotees and blesses them with peace and
prosperity. Sankata Devi manifestation is worshipped on the eighth day of the
Ashwin Navratri. This is also the Durga Ashtami day.
As per Kashi Kanda, Sankata Devi is the one who vanquishes
dangers for her devotees.
Some Puranas describe her as one of the Matrikas. It is said
that she along with another nine manifestations of Goddess Shakti tended to a
prince of Kashi who was born under an unlucky star. The 9 matrikas along with
Sankata Devi became foster mother to the young prince.
The most important day dedicated to Sankata Devi is Friday.
Special prayers are offered to her on this day.
A
very famous temple dedicated to Sankata Devi is located in Varanasi.