Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: During Navratri, the streets of Varanasi resonate with hymns and praises for Maa Durga in her Mahishasuramardini form. This avatar not only symbolizes the goddess's power but also narrates a tale of national unity and collective struggle.
Symbol, Narrative, and Significance
In her Mahishasuramardini form, the Goddess slays Mahishasura with her weapons — this depiction represents power, valor, and collective strength. Scriptures, particularly the Markandeya Purana, describe that when the slaying of the asuras (demons) was not possible for the gods alone, the Goddess, embodying concentrated collective power, was created. Vishnu gave his discus, Shiva his trident, and other deities contributed their bows and arrows, swords, and other weapons — by gathering the power of these armaments, the Goddess vanquished Mahishasura. Over 10 Mahishasuramardini idols from between the 8th and 14th centuries still exist in Varanasi today, demonstrating the continuity of this movement and devotion.
Message in Modern Context
It is believed that this form reminds us that challenges or aggressions should only be confronted with collective power, unity, and firm resolve.
