Durga Devi

Durga is the goddess of power and victory in Hinduism. She is a fierce and warlike form of Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, also known as Mahishasuramardini (slayer of Mahishasura). Goddess Durga is worshipped especially during Navratri. Durga has eight hands in which she holds various weapons and symbols, which symbolize her omnipotence and war skills. Her vehicle is a lion, which symbolizes courage and strength.

Stories:

Mahishasura Vadh: The most famous story of Durga Ji is that of Mahishasura Vadh. The gods were troubled by the atrocities of a demon named Mahishasura. Then all the gods created Durga with their powers. Goddess Durga fought with Mahishasura for nine days and finally killed him on the day of Dussehra. Navdurga: Nine forms of Durga are worshipped during Navratri. These are: Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. Worshiping Durga Ji gives devotees strength, courage, and victory. She is the embodiment of feminine power and worshiping her various forms leads to success and balance in various aspects of life. Durga Puja is particularly celebrated during the festival of Durga Puja or Navratri. The festival lasts for nine days, in which various forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. The nine days of Navratri are dedicated to the worship of nine forms of the Goddess, called Navdurga. The tenth day is called Vijayadashami or Dussehra, which celebrates the victory of good over evil. Durga finds mention in ancient texts, Puranas, and epics, where she is revered as the goddess of strength and courage. Her major forms include Kali, Parvati, and Ambika, representing different qualities and powers.