One of the most significant Hindu festivals - Durga Puja - is here, and devotees of Maa Durga are gearing up to celebrate with much pomp. The five-day annual festival honours Maa Durga and celebrates her victory over the demon king Mahishasura - which is why the Goddess is also known as Mahishasura Mardini. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Goddess Durga visits her earthly abode during this time to bless her devotees. Though the festival holds great significance for Bengalis, it is celebrated with equal pomp in other states like Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bihar and Jharkhand. Hindu mythology says that the demon king Mahishasura was gifted with a boon from Lord Brahma - no man or God could kill him - after he impressed him with his dedication. However, a woman could end the demon. For many years, Mahishasura attacked the Gods and chased them out of heaven after receiving the blessing. He also terrorised humans. Then, all the gods came together to worship Adi Shakti, who could end Mahishaura. The divine light that came out of all the Gods, including Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, created Maa Durga.
The fight between Maa Durga and Mahishasura lasted for ten days. Goddess Durga slayed the demon king on the tenth day, and hence the day is celebrated as Vijaya Dashami, symbolising the victory of good over evil.
Goddess Durga is worshipped as a symbol of power and strength, and the festival celebrates the divine feminine (shakti). Devotees believe that praying to Maa Durga can help them fulfil their goals, overcome hurdles in their lives, and protect them from evil. #durgapuja #durgapuja2022 #durgapujakolkata #unescoculturalheritage #unescoheritage #nikonphotographer #nikonmirrorless
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