Impressive icons of Goddess Durga come to life ahead of grand festival: 10 captivating images

New Delhi, October 13: In the heart of New Delhi's Chittaranjan Park, a dedicated group of twenty artists has set up camp, their hands skillfully shaping idols of Goddess Durga from clay. These magnificent creations, which symbolise the triumph of good over evil, will be immersed in the sacred waters of the Yamuna River on the tenth day of the festival. This marks the culmination of Durga Puja, a time when the goddess, in Hindu mythology, descends to Earth to bless her devoted followers.

Preparations for this ten-day festival commence months in advance. Generous contributions from corporate sponsors and donors are collected to erect vibrant pandals, each centered around contemporary themes. Skilled priests and artisans are engaged to bring these thematic creations to life.

Durga Puja spans a range of durations across the country, celebrated for six days in some regions and up to ten days in others. In most of Northern India, this festival is known as Navratri, or the 'Nine Nights.' Regardless of the duration, the final four days—Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Navami, and Vijay Dashami—are universally significant, celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm.

Goddess Durga, revered as the 'destroyer of evil,' is distinguished by her ten arms, each adorned with a different weapon, as she serenely rides on a lion. Known by various names such as Bhavani, Amba, Chandika, Gauri, Parvati, and Mahishasuramardini, Durga is hailed as the 'Mother Goddess' and the 'Protector of the Righteous' by devout Hindus.

For much of the country, Durga Puja commemorates the victory of the goddess over the demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura threatened the gods and, in response, Goddess Durga rose to battle him, commencing on the seventh day of Navratri, known as Maha Saptami, and ultimately vanquishing him on the auspicious day of Vijay Dashami.

The festival is celebrated with a splendid medley of song and dance, marked by fasting and followed by sumptuous feasts. Elaborate decorations adorn homes and temples, where grand ceremonies and religious recitals take place. In certain regions, young girls adorn themselves as the goddess and actively participate in various rituals conducted at temples and in their homes. Durga Puja is a time of profound spiritual significance, rich traditions, and festive rejoicing.

- With inputs from agencies

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