Durga :: Destroyer of demons, protector of universe
Mahishasur – The Buffalo Demon
Mahishasur was a powerful demon with the head of a buffalo and the body of a man. He was granted a boon by Lord Brahma that no man, god or demon could kill him. Emboldened by this boon, he set about causing chaos in the universe and defeating the gods. The gods then created Maa Durga, who was a manifestation of their collective power. Riding on a lion, Maa Durga challenged Mahishasur. A fierce battle ensued, but Maa Durga managed to pin Mahishasur down with her trident. She then beheaded him, thus ending his reign of terror.
Raktabeej – The Blood Demon
Raktabeej was a demon who was blessed with the boon that every drop of his blood would give rise to a new Raktabeej. Maa Durga and Kali recognized the danger that Raktabeej posed and decided to face him together. In the fierce battle, Kali, with her tongue lolling out, drank all the blood that fell from Raktabeej’s body, thus preventing any new Raktabeejs from being born. Maa Durga then plunged her sword into Raktabeej's heart, killing him.
Madhu-Kaitabh – The Two Demons
Madhu and Kaitabh were two demons who emerged from the ears of Lord Vishnu while he was in a deep sleep. They intended to steal the Vedas from Lord Brahma. The alarmed gods prayed to Maa Durga to help them. Maa Durga agreed and slew the two demons with ease, thus preventing them from depriving the universe of the knowledge contained in the Vedas.
Chand-Mund – The Two Headed Demon
Chand-Mund was another powerful demon who caused chaos in the universe. Maa Durga and Kali went to battle with him. Chand-Mund had two heads, one of which was immortal. Maa Durga cleverly killed the mortal head, making Chand-Mund vulnerable. Kali then swiftly killed the immortal head, thus slaying the demon.
The story of Maa Durga and her various forms is a testament to the power of courage, determination and righteousness in the face of immense adversity. The defeat of these demons by Maa Durga depicts that no matter how strong the evil, justice will always prevail in the end. Maa Durga's worship during the festival of Navratri celebrates her victory over the demons and reminds us of the importance of fighting against injustice and evil.
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