Goddess Durga. Durga is a major goddess in Hinduism, revered for her fierce and protective nature. She is often depicted as a warrior goddess riding a
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Biswarup Ganguly / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
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Goddess Durga. Durga is a major goddess in Hinduism, revered for her fierce and protective nature. She is often depicted as a warrior goddess riding a lion or tiger, wielding various weapons and defeating the forces of evil. Durga is considered a form of Devi, the divine mother, and is worshipped in various forms across Hindu traditions. Here are key aspects of the goddess Durga: 1. **Origins and Mythology:** Durga's origin is traced to Hindu mythology, where she is created by the combined energies and powers of various deities to combat the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The battle between Durga and Mahishasura is a significant episode celebrated during the festival of Durga Puja. 2. **Iconography:** Durga is often depicted with multiple arms, each holding different weapons symbolizing her various powers. She rides a lion or tiger, and her form is dynamic and fierce. The image of Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura is a common depiction. 3. **Navaratri and Durga Puja:** The festival of Navaratri, which spans nine nights, is dedicated to the worship of Durga. In some regions, particularly in Bengal, it culminates in Durga Puja, a grand celebration of the goddess's victory over Mahishasura. The festival is marked by elaborate decorations, processions, and cultural events. 4. **Different Forms:** Durga is worshipped in various forms, each representing different aspects of her divine nature. Some of her well-known forms include Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, Mahasaraswati, and others. 5. **Devi Mahatmya:** Durga's exploits and battles against demons are detailed in the Devi Mahatmya, a section of the Markandeya Purana. This text describes her as the ultimate power (Shakti) that encompasses the energies of all deities. 6. **Shaktism and Tantric Worship:** Durga is a central figure in Shaktism, a Hindu tradition that emphasizes the worship of the divine feminine energy, or Shakti. Tantric practices often involve the worship of Durga as a manifestation of the supreme g