Why we Celebrate Durga Ashtami: A Celebration of Divine Feminine Power
Durga Ashtami, also known as Maha Ashtami, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the eighth day of the month of Ashvina, which falls in September or October according to the Gregorian calendar. It is a day of great importance in the Hindu calendar, especially for devotees of Goddess Durga, the embodiment of divine feminine power.
The Story Behind Durga Ashtami
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga was created by the gods to defeat the buffalo-demon Mahishasura, who had been terrorizing the universe with his evil powers. Armed with weapons and riding a lion, Durga fought a fierce battle against Mahishasura and his army, ultimately emerging victorious on the eighth day of the battle. This day is celebrated as Durga Ashtami, marking the triumph of good over evil and the victory of divine feminine power.
Preparations and Celebrations
Preparations for Durga Ashtami begin several days in advance, with devotees cleaning and decorating their homes, temples, and pandals (temporary structures) with flowers, lights, and colorful decorations. Giant idols of Goddess Durga, accompanied by her four children – Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartikeya, and Ganesha – are erected in pandals, which are then worshipped and offered prayers.
On the day of Durga Ashtami, devotees gather in large numbers at temples and pandals to offer prayers, flowers, and sweets to Goddess Durga. The atmosphere is filled with the sound of drums, conch shells, and chanting of mantras, creating a sense of spiritual fervor. In some places, devotees also perform the ritual of Kumari Puja, where young girls are worshipped as embodiments of Goddess Durga.
Significance of Durga Ashtami
Durga Ashtami has great cultural and religious significance in India, especially in the eastern states of West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and the triumph of divine feminine power. The festival also celebrates the values of courage, strength, and protection, which are embodied by Goddess Durga.
In addition to its religious significance, Durga Ashtami also marks the beginning of the festive season in India, culminating in Diwali, the festival of lights. It is a time for people to come together with family and friends, celebrate, and reaffirm their commitment to the values of righteousness and justice.
Regional Celebrations
Durga Ashtami is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across India, with different regions having their unique traditions and customs. In West Bengal, it is celebrated as part of the five-day Durga Puja festival, which is a major event in the state’s cultural calendar. In Odisha, it is celebrated as Durga Puja, with devotees worshipping Goddess Durga in temples and pandals. In Assam, it is celebrated as Durga Puja, with devotees worshipping Goddess Durga in temples and pandals, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances.
Conclusion
Durga Ashtami is a celebration of divine feminine power, courage, strength, and protection. It is a day to worship Goddess Durga, the embodiment of these values, and to reaffirm our commitment to righteousness and justice. As we celebrate Durga Ashtami, we are reminded of the eternal values of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and the triumph of divine power.
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