Durga Mata

Durga Mata is one of the main goddesses of Hinduism , who is considered a symbol of power and destructive energy. Durga is considered an invincible goddess , who destroys ignorance , arrogance , injustice and oppression. Durga means "one who is inaccessible" i.e. one who removes sufferings.

Origin of Durga Mata

According to the legend of Durga Mata ,a demon named Mahishasura had obtained a boon through his power and penance that he could not be killed by any god or man. After this, Mahishasura started committing atrocities in all the three worlds. To defeat him, Brahma,Vishnu and Mahesh (Trimurti) created a woman with their respective powers. This woman was Shakti Roopa Durga,who appeared to destroy the demons.

Durga Mata killed Mahishasura and freed all the gods and realms from his evil,after which she came to be known as Mahishasuramardini .

Nine Forms of Goddess Durga (Navdurga):

1. Shailaputri – Daughter of the mountain king Himalayas.

2. Brahmacharini – One who does penance.

3. Chandraghanta – One who holds a bell shaped like the moon.

4. Kushmanda – Creator of the universe.

5. Skandamata – Mother of Lord Kartikeya.

6. Katyayani – Daughter of sage Katyayana.

7. Kaalratri – The one who defeats even time.

8. Mahagauri – Goddess of purity and peace.

9. Siddhidatri – The one who provides all siddhis.

Durga Puja :

Durga Puja is celebrated with great pomp especially in West Bengal , Assam , Bihar , Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. The festival is mainly celebrated during Navratri , in which various forms of the Goddess are worshipped for nine days. On Dussehra , the victory of Durga Mata over the demon Mahishasura is celebrated , which is believed to symbolize the victory of good over evil.

Symbols of Goddess Durga :

· Vehicle : The vehicle of Goddess Durga is lion , which is a symbol of strength and courage.

Weapons : He holds various weapons in his hands like sword , trident , chakra , etc. , which symbolize destruction of evil and negativity.

Lotus : The Goddess also holds a lotus flower in her hands , which is a symbol of purity and auspiciousness .

Importance of Durga Mata : Durga Mata is considered to be the goddess who relieves from troubles,destroys fear and provides strength,courage and confidence to the seekers. She is worshipped to bring positivity and peace in life as well as to end evil and sufferings.