Durga is believed to have originated as an ancient goddess worshipped by indigenous mountain-dwellers of the Indian subcontinent, before being established in the main Hindu pantheon by the 4th century CE.
Durga, identified as Adi Parashakti, is a primary and popular form of the Hindu goddess. She is the warrior goddess, whose mythology centers on fighting the evils and demonic forces that threaten peace, prosperity, and the dharma of good.
The word Durga is derived from the Sanskrit word Durg, which means “fortress or something impossible to pass or invincible”. Therefore, the word Durga means “the one who is invincible”.
Durga, also known as Devi or Shakti, holds immense cultural significance in Hinduism as she symbolizes the feminine energy that upholds the universe. Her historical origins can be dated to the Vedic texts, where she's revered as a warrior goddess who fiercely protects the cosmos from evil forces.
Goddess Durga, often referred to simply as " Ma Durga," is a prominent and revered deity in Hinduism. She is particularly celebrated during the festival of Navaratri, which lasts for nine nights and honors her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Goddess Durga is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, symbolizing power, protection, and righteousness. She is the ultimate embodiment of Shakti (divine feminine energy) and is worshipped as the destroyer of evil and the protector of the universe.
Goddess Durga is one of the most revered deities in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the eternal feminine power known as Shakti. Her significance transcends mere worship; she embodies the strength, resilience, and nurturing aspects of womanhood.
Durga is a principal form of the supreme Goddess in Hinduism, also known as Devi and Shakti./GettyImages-162532712-5c3d0f4946e0fb000138b25c.jpg)
Learn about the goddess Durga, one of the most powerful deities in Hinduism, and discover the meaning of the mother goddess' many symbols.